Understanding Dementia: Early Diagnosis and Holistic Brain Health

Have you ever worried about a parent’s memory—or wondered what you can do for your own brain health? In this episode of the YMyHealth Podcast, Co-Host Melissa Schenkman talks with renowned neurologist and U.S. Air Force Veteran, Dr. Catherine Madison, as they explore the latest advances in dementia and Alzheimer's care. Learn about the early signs of memory loss, the critical importance of early diagnosis, and holistic approaches to brain health. Discover practical steps for prevention and lifestyle interventions that support cognitive function and planning for the future. This episode is essential listening for caregivers and anyone interested in proactive brain health.

🎧Tune in now to learn why getting answers sooner matters and practical ways to plan ahead to protect your brain health and your loved ones, as well as care for those in your life living with dementia or Alzheimer's disease.  And share this info on one of today's hottest health topics with your friends!

Highlights:
(00:00)
Introduction to dementia and Alzheimer's
(02:07)
Dr. Madison's background and journey into dementia care
(04:14)
Current landscape and recent advances in treatment
(06:17)
The significance of early diagnosis and new medications
(07:26)
Research developments and future therapies
(09:51)
Understanding dementia as a horizontal illness affecting families
(11:44)
Recognizing normal vs. abnormal memory changes
(13:25)
Early signs of dementia and behavioral changes
(14:14)
The concept of anosognosia and its implications
(17:11)
How breakdowns in brain networks affect memory and planning
(19:04)
Approaching loved ones about memory concerns
(22:26)
Responding to repetitive questions and agitation
(23:51)
Managing panic and urgency in seeking diagnosis
(25:36)
Pathways for diagnosis and treatment options
(27:14)
Why Dr. Madison wrote her book and its key insights
(29:33)
Summary of key takeaways and hope for the future
(41:14)
Final thoughts and encouragement for proactive planning

Links:
Are you a millennial interested in learning more about healthcare issues specifically related to your generation? Start here: https://www.ymyhealth.com/ and follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/ymyhealth_/


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Learn more about this episode's guest, Dr. Catherine Madison, a renowned neurologist and Founder of the Dolby Brain Health Center in San Francisco at: https://www.mdmemorycare.com/personal-story

**Purchase Dr. Madison's AMAZING book at Barnes & Noble here or at Amazon here. Here book is titled, Navigating Memory Loss - Essential Questions and Answers on Alzheimer's and Dementia

*Interested in sponsoring the YMyHealth podcast? We'd love to partner with brands and organizations that align with our mission of providing healthcare education to millennials. Contact us at ymyhealthpodcast@gmail.com for sponsorship opportunities.

Learn about YMyHealth's Podcast Co-Host and Content Marketing Strategist, Julie Woon, here:
https://www.ymyhealth.com/team/julie-woon

Thanks again to our sponsor, Dr. Sarah Diekman, Director of Diekman Dysautonomia! If you’d like to learn more about our sponsor and her practice that provides care to patients with POTS and Long COVID, go to https://dysautonomiaexpert.com

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