The Disappearing Mind Podcast

What does it mean to truly understand Alzheimer’s disease, and how can that understanding lead to greater compassion, connection, and hope?

In recognition of World Alzheimer’s Day on September 21, we’re revisiting a popular episode from National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. Join host Dawn Platt as she explores what Alzheimer’s really is and why it’s about far more than simply forgetting where you ...

What happens when a dementia diagnosis changes not just how you see yourself, but how others see you? In recognition of World Alzheimer's Month, host Dawn Platt takes on one of the most overlooked challenges of the dementia journey: stigma. Through heartfelt stories, real-life examples, and practical insights, Dawn explores why fear and misunderstanding often lead people to pull away after a diagnosis, and how we can replace silenc...

When memory changes begin to affect daily life, how do you know whether it's normal aging, a treatable condition, or something more serious? In the third episode of this three-part series, “Living Well With Dementia: A Journey to Thriving,” host Dawn Platt explores the critical question of why getting a dementia diagnosis matters.

In recognition of World Alzheimer's Month and this year's theme, "The Earlier You Know, Th...

How can we help someone with dementia hold on to the things that make life meaningful? In the second episode of this three-part series, “Living Well With Dementia: A Journey to Thriving Well,” host Dawn Platt explores the deeply personal side of the dementia journey — finding fulfillment, preserving a sense of self, and continuing to embrace the values, passions, and interests that make each person unique. Through...

What does it really mean to live well with dementia? In the first episode of this three-part series, “Living Well With Dementia: A Journey to Thriving Well,” our host Dawn Platt explores how individuals and families can navigate dementia with greater confidence, dignity, and hope. From maintaining independence and meaningful connections to creating supportive environments and adapting to changing needs, Dawn shares prac...

Some days you're helping with homework. Other days you're sitting in a neurologist's office. Most days, you're doing both — and wondering if you're giving enough to anyone. When you're raising children while caring for a parent with dementia, it can feel like you're being pulled in every direction.

In this heartfelt episode of The Disappearing Mind, host Dawn Platt explores the unique challenges facing the "sandwich generation...

What do you do when your parent is diagnosed with dementia while you're still in your 30s or 40s? If you're a millennial caring for a parent with dementia, you may feel like you're carrying more than anyone realizes.

In this episode of The Disappearing Mind, host Dawn Platt explores the unique challenges facing younger caregivers — from balancing work, children, and finances to navigating grief, isolation, and life-changing de...

How do you care for a loved one with dementia during a hurricane or other natural disaster or emergency? In this episode, host Dawn Platt and retired Collier County, FL Sherriff's Office Chief Tim Guerrette share practical dementia caregiving tips for preparing ahead, reducing anxiety, maintaining routines, and making difficult evacuation decisions. Whether you're in the midst of the peak of hurricane season or planning ahead for a...

In recognition of World Brain Day, observed on July 22, The Disappearing Mind brings you an inspiring conversation about protecting and strengthening brain health at every stage of life. Host Dawn Platt welcomes Dr. Cynthia Green, Ph.D., clinical psychologist, author, and nationally recognized brain health expert, for a spirited discussion on memory, brain exercises, neuroplasticity, and practical strategies to keep your brain heal...

Could cognitive therapy help slow the progression of memory loss? In this episode of The Disappearing Mind, host Dawn Platt welcomes Tammy Rosso from Discovery At Home to discuss the Cognitive Assessment & Memory Program (CAMP®) — an innovative, Medicare-covered cognitive therapy program designed to help eligible individuals strengthen memory, support brain health, and maintain independence.

Learn who qualifies, how the pr...

Navigating a dementia diagnosis can feel overwhelming, especially when you're trying to make the best decisions for someone you love. In this new episode, host Dawn Platt is joined by memory care expert Maggie Mariello for a compassionate conversation about what families can expect as dementia progresses and how memory care can provide comfort, safety, and meaningful quality of life. Together, they explore the differences between a...

If you're caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease or another type of dementia, you've probably asked yourself, "Is this normal?", "Am I doing the right thing?", or "How do I handle this?"

In this episode, host Dawn Platt answers real questions submitted by family caregivers who are navigating the everyday challenges, emotions, and uncertainties of dementia caregiving.

From managing difficult behaviors and improving communica...

To close out Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, we’re revisiting this informative episode of The Disappearing Mind, highlighting the importance of memory screenings for adults over 50.

Learn how these simple 10-15 minute evaluations can detect not just early signs of dementia, but also treatable conditions like vitamin deficiencies or thyroid disorders, and discover convenient options, including free screenings fro...

What if protecting your brain health was just as important as protecting your heart? In recognition of Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, we’re revisiting an insightful conversation with host Dawn Platt, where she reveals why dementia isn’t an inevitable part of aging — and what you can do right now to help build your brain’s natural defense system.

Discover the surprising lifestyle habits that can...

We're revisiting a must-listen episode where host Dawn Platt and Board Certified Neurologist and Clinical Neurophysiologist Dr. Michelle Boudreau discuss an important question many individuals and families face: when is it time to see a neurologist for memory concerns?

Together, they explore the role neurologists play in identifying and evaluating cognitive changes, discuss the latest advancements in dementia medications, and examin...

What if the key to protecting your brain isn't just exercise — but how you move and think at the same time? In this fascinating episode of The Disappearing Mind, host Dawn Platt welcomes SMARTfit CEO and cognitive fitness innovator Cathi Lamberti for a conversation that challenges everything we thought we knew about brain health. From cognitive reserve and dementia prevention to the surprising power of dual-task training, Cat...

Could one simple change help you or a loved one stay stronger, safer, and more independent with age? In this popular episode, host Dawn Platt welcomes back Dr. Brittany Tallhamer, a physical and occupational therapist who has witnessed firsthand how movement can transform lives at any age or stage of dementia. Dr. Tallhamer reveals the shocking truth about what happens when we stop moving, shares an inspiring recovery story that sh...

Can you really build a stronger, more resilient brain as you age? In recognition of Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month, host Dawn Platt explores the science of cognitive reserve— the brain’s ability to adapt, compensate, and stay strong despite aging or neurological changes. Discover 10 research-backed strategies to support brain health, reduce dementia risk, and boost cognitive resilience through everyday habits l...

We're revisiting a popular episode exploring brain health and movement therapy with special guest, Dr. Brittany Tallhamer. As a Physical and Occupational Therapist, Dr. Tallhamer has dedicated her career to helping seniors living with dementia improve their quality of life through movement therapy and meaningful connection. But for Dr. Tallhamer, dementia care is more than a profession – it’s deeply personal.

In this hea...