Let’s talk about dementia

Our podcast series explores the different variants of dementia from both a scientific and carers viewpoint. Professor Michael Hornberger explains in layman terms, what’s happening in the brain to help our understanding of the disease. Fascinating and awful in equal measure.

We also hear from carers looking after loved ones with the disease dementia, as they explain how they first noticed the symptoms and how they cope as the disease progresses. Painful, deeply emotional stories, told here with the sole purpose of helping others who find themselves in a similar situation.

Professor Michael Hornberger is head of dementia research at the University of East Anglia, and has spent his professional life working to understand this disease – I know him well, and he’s highly respected in his field and top-notch in every sense.

The overriding message being you are not alone and there is help and support available if you know where to look and who to ask.

Great starting points can be found here:

https://www.alzheimersresearchuk.org/

https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/

https://www.ageuk.org.uk/

A brilliant local support group in Wymondham https://www.wymondham-dementia-support-group.org.uk/

https://www.dementiauk.org/sources-of-support-for-families/

Listen to our podcast series below…

Understanding Alzheimer’s – Professor Hornberger Explains

by Neil Foley | Let’s talk about dementia

Alzheimer's is the most common form of dementia This podcast explores the symptoms at the onset and as the disease develops. What's actually happening in the brain, the role of health professionals, the importance of exercise and nutrition - all explained in a...

Living with an Alzheimer sufferer – Kevin’s story

by Neil Foley | Let’s talk about dementia

Kevin first became aware that something wasn't quite right with his wife in 2008, but it took a long time before a formal diagnosis was made. Here Kevin shares his experiences and how he tackled dealing with different health professionals. It's been very difficult as...

Dementia FAQs explained by Professor Hornberger

by Neil Foley | Let’s talk about dementia

Dementia explained in layman terms by an expert, answering the Frequently Asked Questions we all want to know about this disease. Common symptoms, how it progresses, what causes it, the different variants, the role of proteins, diagnosis, treatment... Michael has been...

Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia – Sue’s story caring for her Mum and husband

by Neil Foley | Let’s talk about dementia

Sue is dealing with her Mum's Alzheimers and just recently her husband's vascular dementia. Here she explains the symptoms they exhibited at the outset, how the disease has developed, the reaction of both her Mum and husband, plus friends and neighbours too....

Frontotemporal Dementia explained

by Neil Foley | Let’s talk about dementia

FTD is a rare form of the disease which usually impacts those under 65, and starts in two specific areas of the brain. Here we explore the symptoms, its impact on semantic knowledge, how sufferers frequently hide their symptoms, the loss of 'filters' which can make...

Behavioural Variant Frontotemporal Dementia – Paul’s’ Story

by Neil Foley | Let’s talk about dementia

Paul cares for his wife suffering with this disease but my goodness it has been a difficult journey, and indeed, continues to be so. Here he explains the difficulties encountered when trying to make sense of what was happening, why the diagnosis took so long, the role...

Frontotemporal Dementia – Sally’s Story

by Neil Foley | Let’s talk about dementia

Sally's husband is 58 and yet could have had this disease for many years before being officially diagnosed. Here she describes the symptoms, his increasingly irrational behaviour, how he got on at the memory clinic, the problems she encountered with some health...

Posterior Cortical Atrophy Alzheimer Explained

by Neil Foley | Let’s talk about dementia

A very rare form of Alzheimer's that affects the back of the brain, leading to spatial and visual problems. Professor Michael Hornberger explains the symptoms, what's happening within the brain and how the disease develops over time. It's rare, making diagnosis...