In this heartfelt and eye-opening 60th episode of GutPunched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards reflects on milestones, both personal and universal. It’s Father’s Day weekend, June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, and we’ve hit 60 episodes of this powerful journey.

Jeff kicks things off with a sobering yet timely question: Is there a connection between fathers who have Alzheimer’s and your own risk of developing it? Then Jeff sets the stage for an incredibly meaningful and sincere conversation with Dr. Ed Shaw about Keeping Love Alive As Memories Fade.

Dr. Shaw is not only a former caregiver but also a four-time author, national speaker, part-time counselor, and leader of caregiver support groups. Most importantly, he speaks from experience, with clarity, compassion, and purpose. In this episode, he shares insights from his book, Keeping Love Alive as Memories Fade, introducing the Five Love Languages and how they can be adapted to deepen connection with loved ones who are living with dementia.

This interview is more than informational; it’s deeply moving. Dr. Shaw’s personal stories and professional wisdom give caregivers a new lens to see their roles, and their relationships, with renewed empathy and hope.

As always, Jeff reminds us of the four grounding rules that GutPunched listeners have come to rely on:

• Take care of yourself.

• You can't do this alone—get help.

• Make a list, and use it.

• Create a help signal for your loved one.

This isn’t just another podcast episode—it’s a reminder of why caregiving matters, and how love, even in the face of memory loss, can still be nurtured and expressed.

Listen in. Take notes. And above all, know you’re not alone. GUTPUNCHED: ALZHEIMER’S AND CAREGIVERS. GUTPUNCHED.COM

Thank you for listening to GutPunched: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers – Episode 60

Fathers & Alzheimer’s: Is There a Connection?” And Keeping Love Alive As Memories Fade, Featuring Author Dr. Ed Shaw

Let me know if you’d like a shorter version, one formatted for social media, or a podcast.

Host Jeff Edwards brings a quick-hit, high-impact episode this week on GutPunched: Alzheimer’s & Caregivers. After deciding to shorten a few upcoming episodes for a bit of recharging time, Jeff still delivers valuable insights for caregivers and those affected by Alzheimer’s.

In this episode, Jeff spotlights the Alzheimer’s Association’s new app, My ALZ Journey—a powerful, user-friendly mobile resource designed specifically to support individuals living with early-stage dementia. Learn how this app can provide practical help and support anytime, anywhere.

Then, Jeff turns to one of his favorite topics: the healing power of music. Discover how music can help soothe depression in dementia patients, offering emotional relief and connection when words may fail.

As always, Jeff reminds listeners of the core principles of caregiving:

1. Take care of yourself first.

2. Don’t go it alone—seek support.

3. Make and use your help lists.

4. Create a “help signal” for your loved one.

Whether you’re a seasoned caregiver or just starting your journey, this episode is packed with accessible tools and heartfelt encouragement.

In this quick-hit episode, host Jeff Edwards shifts focus to a crucial topic many caregivers face daily: caregiver stress. As June kicks off, Jeff uses this episode to provide listeners with a compact but powerful discussion on recognizing the emotional and physical strain caregiving can create—and more importantly, how to manage it.

Drawing from resources by the Alzheimer’s Association, Jeff outlines the 10 common signs of caregiver stress, such as anxiety, exhaustion, and withdrawal, while also offering 6 actionable strategies to reduce stress and stay healthier, both mentally and physically. He reminds listeners of the core “GutPunched Rules,” a foundational set of principles for caregivers:

1. Take care of yourself first.

2. Don’t try to do it alone—seek support.

3. Use your network of help.

4. Establish a “help signal” with your loved one.

This episode serves as a much-needed check-in for caregivers who may feel overwhelmed, isolated, or unsure of where to turn. Jeff also invites caregivers to share their personal stories—whether victories or hardships—for a future segment titled GutPunched: Stories from the Frontlines of Caregiving.

Resources Mentioned:
For more caregiver tools and support, visit: alz.org/Caregiverstress
To share your caregiving story, contact: GUTPUNCHEDAC@outlook.com

On this Memorial Day weekend edition of GUTPUNCHED: Alzheimer’s and Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards brings you powerful updates and essential truths for those navigating the realities of Alzheimer’s disease. From scientific advances to personal resilience, this episode dives into critical topics every caregiver and family member should know.

Jeff covers groundbreaking news: the FDA has approved the first-ever blood test to detect Alzheimer’s — a potential game changer for early diagnosis and intervention. We also explore recent research linking prolonged sitting to brain shrinkage and how zinc supplements may offer hope in slowing Alzheimer’s progression.

Plus, we break down key insights from the Alzheimer’s Association’s newly released 2025 Facts and Figures report — offering a clearer view of the growing impact of this disease on families and our healthcare system.

As always, Jeff reminds us of the “Caregiver’s Rules” — hard-won lessons that help you survive the emotional and physical strain of caregiving:

• Prioritize your own well-being,

• Don’t isolate yourself,

• Use your network and ask for help,

• And create a simple, effective way for your loved one to signal when they’re ready to accept assistance.

Whether you’re deep in the trenches of caregiving or just beginning the journey, this episode is packed with real talk, useful strategies, and the latest Alzheimer’s science to keep you informed and supported.

Listen in, lean on us, and don’t forget: you’re not alone.

New Episode is available on The Podcast Playground, PODBEAN, and all major platforms, including Spotify, Pandora, Google, iHeart, Apple, and more. Don't forget to like and subscribe! Check GUTPUNCHED.COM for the latest information

GUTPUNCHED: ALZHEIMER’S AND CAREGIVERS EPISODE 57

The new episode is available on The Podcast Playground and all major platforms, including Spotify, Pandora, Google, iHeart, Apple, and more. Don't forget to like and subscribe! Check GUTPUNCHED.COM for the latest information

GUTPUNCHED: ALZHEIMER’S AND CAREGIVERS Episode 56 OR Just the Facts, Ma'am, Just the Facts"

In this episode, host Jeff Edwards delves into the latest statistical insights from the Alzheimer’s Association’s 2025 “Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures” report. The discussion focuses on the escalating prevalence of Alzheimer's disease, its impact on the aging population, and the profound effects on caregivers.

Key Topics Covered: Prevalence and Mortality: Economic Impact: Caregiver Challenges, Demographic Disparities:

Read the full 2025 Facts and Figures report

This episode provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of Alzheimer's disease in the United States, emphasizing the importance of awareness, early detection, and support for both individuals affected and their caregivers.

As always, Jeff revisits his four golden rules for caregiving, offering grounded advice and practical strategies to help listeners stay resilient and supported in their roles.

#GUTPUNCHED #ALZHEIMERS #DEMENTIA #CAREGIVERS

New Episode available on The Podcast Playground, and all major platforms including Spotify, Pandora, Google, iHeart, Apple, and more. Don't forget to like and subscribe! Check GUTPUNCHED.COM for latest informaion

GUTPUNCHED: ALZHEIMER’S AND CAREGIVERS EPISODE 55
Or: One of the Craziest and Scariest Stories About Alzheimer’s Diagnosis

In this gripping episode of GutPunched, host Jeff Edwards dives into what might be one of the most shocking and eye-opening Alzheimer’s stories yet. From a chilling tale of a delayed diagnosis to surprising research, Episode 55 is packed with must-know information for caregivers and families navigating the Alzheimer’s journey.

Jeff covers recent headlines from the Alzheimer’s Association and WebMD, including tips on managing daily care routines and a fascinating new “smell test” that may detect dementia in its early stages. Perhaps most startling: a report revealing that many patients aren’t even aware they’ve been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s—a fact that stuns even seasoned caregivers.

As always, Jeff revisits his four golden rules for caregiving, offering grounded advice and practical strategies to help listeners stay resilient and supported in their roles. Plus, he shares a heartfelt Mother’s Day shoutout to all the caregiving moms out there—you deserve it.

Whether you're a seasoned caregiver or just beginning your journey, this episode is a compelling reminder that you're not alone—and that help, knowledge, and support are out there.

#GUTPUNCHED #ALZHEIMERS #DEMENTIA #CAREGIVERS

New Episode available on The Podcast Playground, PODBEAN and all major platforms including Spotify, Pandora, Google, iHeart, Apple, and more. Don't forget to like and subscribe! Check GUTPUNCHED.COM for latest informaion

“You’re Middle-Aged and Think You Might Have Alzheimer’s…Wait, What?”
In this candid and eye-opening episode of GutPunched: Alzheimer’s & Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards explores a surprising and often unspoken topic—early signs of Alzheimer’s appearing in middle age. With his usual blend of honesty, heart, and a dash of musical nostalgia (including a nod to the Bee Gees' “First of May”), Jeff kicks off May by revisiting the show’s growing list of essential caregiver rules—introducing a new one about creating a “Help Signal” to ease loved ones into accepting outside assistance.

Listeners are also treated to an insightful conversation with Tara Jean-Baptiste, RN, Director of Care Management at Heart, Body & Mind Home Care. Tara brings deep expertise and compassion as she discusses the future of caregiving, person-centered care, and the importance of supporting caregivers through education and community. Featuring a newly named harmonica player, “The Jammer,” this episode is both informative and soulful—offering real talk, real tools, and real support for those on the caregiving journey.

#GUTPUNCHED #ALZHEIMERS #DEMENTIA #CAREGIVERS

In Gutpunched: Alzheimer's and Caregivers, host Jeff Edwards dives deep into the world of caregiving, offering practical advice, emotional support, and a candid look at the challenges faced by those caring for loved ones with Alzheimer's. In this episode, Jeff revisits crucial caregiving principles and shares insights that can make a difference in navigating the tough journey of dementia care.

He starts by revisiting some of the fundamental rules caregivers need to follow:

1. Prioritize your own well-being — if you don't take care of yourself, who will take care of your loved one?

2. Recognize that you can't do it alone; support is essential. Connect with caregiving groups or your network of friends and family.

3. Create a practical list of people who’ve offered help and list tasks you can’t manage yourself due to the overwhelming nature of caregiving. Then, use that list to get things done efficiently, tackling the top priorities first.

4. A special tip: Create a "Help Signal" to ease your loved one’s anxiety when outside help comes in. It could be a specific phrase or cue that your loved one can recognize, helping them feel more comfortable even if the helper is unfamiliar.

The episode also touches on three key topics:

• How increasing daytime sleepiness may be an early sign of dementia.

• A new blood test that can diagnose and track Alzheimer’s disease.

• Four valuable suggestions for caregivers at any stage of the journey.

With humor, heart, and a dose of reality, Jeff Edwards offers caregivers practical tools and emotional validation while helping them maintain their own mental and physical health. Whether you're in the early stages of caregiving or in the thick of it, this episode is full of helpful tips and reassuring advice for anyone supporting a loved one through Alzheimer’s.