Defy Dementia – The podcast for anyone with a brain, by Baycrest

In this two-part special, Defy Dementia focuses on stress and caregiving. First, find out how stress can negatively affect brain health. Jay and Allison speak to “Zoe”, a 53-year-old who lives with post-traumatic stress disorder since being almost killed during a random attack, and Dr. William Malarkey (Ohio State University), an expert on stress and brain health. Then, the second episode focuses specifically on the stress of being a caregiver, and how this can increase dementia risk. Tune in to both episodes for practical advice to help you protect your brain today.

This is the second episode of our two-part special on stress and caregiving. With one in two Canadians expected to become caregivers in their lifetime, Defy Dementia unpacks the significant effects of caregiving on brain health. First, Dr. Ho Yu (University of Toronto) discusses the various factors that increase caregivers’ dementia risk. Then, Katie Brandt shares her journey as a caregiver for her husband and father, both diagnosed with dementia when she was just 29. Drawing from her experience, Katie offers invaluable advice for caregivers both new and seasoned. Whether you are currently a caregiver or may become one in the future, don’t miss this new episode for critical insights and guidance to help defy dementia.

This episode of Defy Dementia helps you sort through everything you’ve learned about dementia risk factors and identify those factors you can tackle in your life. First, meet Ravi Venkatesh, an active 62-year-old who recently started making multiple lifestyle changes to improve his brain health after discovering this very podcast. Then, you’ll meet Dr. Sylvie Belleville (University of Montreal) who provides simple and practical advice to reduce your dementia risk. Wherever you are in your brain health journey, don’t miss this empowering new episode to help you defy dementia.   Visit defydementia.org for more episodes and resources. Tell us what you think! Provide feedback about the Defy Dementia podcast, video and infographics by filling out a short survey. Resources Community programs: Baycrest’s Kimel Family Centre for Brain Health and WellnessCanadian Institute for Social Prescribing Practical tools and tips: 15 Things You Can Do Now To Reduce Your Risk Of Dementia: #5 Stimulating Activities – video by BaycrestTrain Your Brain – by Harvard Health  About the effects on lifestyle on dementia risk: Lifestyle behaviors can lower your risk of dementia – from the CDCHealthy lifestyle behaviors reduced dementia risk despite family history of dementia – from the American Heart Association

Join podcast co-hosts Dr. Allison Sekuler and Jay Ingram for Defy Dementia Episode 8 as they unravel the intricate connection between sleep and dementia. Meet Mary Hynes, a retired special education teacher who leads an active, brain-healthy life but continues to struggle with her sleep. Then, hear from Dr. Andrew Lim, a brain health expert from Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre and the University of Toronto, to learn how poor quality sleep may affect brain health and increase dementia risk. Don’t miss this fascinating new episode for practical strategies to help you keep your mind sharp.  Visit defydementia.org for more episodes and resources. Tell us what you think! Provide feedback about the Defy Dementia podcast, video and infographics by filling out a short survey. Resources Practical tips: The Benefits of a Good Night’s Sleep – from BaycrestCaregiver training: Sleep disturbances [video] – from the UCLA Alzheimer's and Dementia Care Program More information about the link between sleep and dementia: Good sleep for good health: Get the rest you need – from the National Institutes of HealthSleep and dementia risk – from the UK Alzheimer’s SocietyUnderstanding the connection between sleep and dementia – from Harvard Pilgrim Health CareSleep problems and dementia - from WebMD Studies on sleep and dementia: Deep sleep may mitigate Alzheimer's memory loss – from Berkeley News- Seven to eight hours: The goldilocks of sleep – from Cognitive Vitality

This episode of Defy Dementia focuses on outdoor and indoor air pollution and its impact on brain health. First, we speak to Dr. Mark Weisskopf (Harvard University) about outdoor pollution, such as wildfire smoke, and how it may increase your dementia risk. Then, we meet Shiven Taneja, a Mississauga teen who builds do-it-yourself (DIY) air purifiers at a low cost for vulnerable community members. Finally, Dr. Tara Kahan (University of Saskatchewan) discusses ways to reduce your exposure to indoor sources of pollution, such as cooking and candle fumes. Tune in today for practical tips on lowering your indoor and outdoor pollution exposure, and decrease your dementia risk!  Visit defydementia.org for more episodes and resources. Tell us what you think! Provide feedback about the Defy Dementia podcast, video and infographics by filling out a short survey Resources Studies on air pollution and dementia risk: Western research shows traffic related air pollution linked to increased risk of dementia – from Western UniversityAir pollution linked to higher dementia risk: Study – from WebMDAir pollution may increase risk for dementia – from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health  Check the air quality in your area: Local Air Quality Health Index – from the Government of CanadaAir Now – Air Quality Index for the US – from the US GovernmentAir Pollution in World: Real-time Air Quality Index Visual Map Tips to reduce your air pollution exposure: Tips for reducing indoor pollutants in your home – from HealthLinkBCImprove indoor air quality in your home – from the Government of Canada10 tips to protect yourself from unhealthy air – from the American Lung Association How to build your own air purifier: Science in action: How to build a Corsi-Rosenthal box – from UC Davis College of Engineering 

In this special episode of Defy Dementia, co-hosts Jay Ingram and Dr. Allison Sekuler reflect on what they have learned so far on the podcast and discuss resolutions to make for the new year to reduce their dementia risk. They also explore ways to make it easier to stick to resolutions beyond the first few days of January. We’d love to hear from you: Are you making any brain-healthy resolutions this year? Share them with us at defydementia@baycrest.org or on social media using the hashtag #defydementia.

In Episode 5 of Defy Dementia, you’ll learn that what you eat can impact your brain health. First, hear from Anjali Gupta, a retired dietician who has made several lifestyle changes to reduce her dementia risk following her mother’s dementia diagnosis. Then, find out how food can affect the brain with Dr. Thomas Holland, a physician and nutrition expert from Rush Institute for Healthy Aging at Rush University Medical Center. Tune in for practical tips to help you make brain-healthy food choices.  Provide feedback about the Defy Dementia podcast, video and infographics by filling out a short survey Resources Brain Health Food Guide – from Baycrest and the Canadian Consortium on Neurodegeneration in Aging (CCNA)Brain Health Recipes – from CognicitiFeed Your Brain What It Needs – Eat Right – from Cogniciti101 Tips for Tip-Top Health – from Harvard Medical SchoolPromoting Brain Health – free educational module from iGeriCare 

Episode 4 of Defy Dementia focuses on exercise and its critical role in reducing dementia risk. We first speak to Ernestine Shepherd, an 87-year-old bodybuilder. Ernestine shares how exercise became her anchor during a challenging phase in life and why it remains a vital part of her daily routine today. Then, we turn to Dr. Jennifer Heisz, a brain health expert from McMaster University, an adjunct scientist at Baycrest’s Rotman Research Institute and a triathlete, to hear about the ways in which exercise can protect the brain against cognitive decline and dementia. Don’t miss this exciting new episode to learn how you can use exercise to boost your brain health.   Tell us what you think! Provide feedback about the Defy Dementia podcast, video and infographics by filling out a short survey. Additional resources:·       Arnold’s Pump Club Newsletter – from Arnold SchwarzeneggerBaycrest’s Kimel Family Centre for Brain Health and WellnessDr. Jennifer Heisz’ book, Move the Body, Heal the MindRegular exercise changes the brain to improve memory, thinking skills – from Harvard HealthExpert Alert: Keep exercising: New study finds it’s good for your brain’s gray matter – from the Mayo ClinicWorking out boosts brain health – from the American Psychological AssociationHow Exercise Protects Your Brain’s Health – from the Cleveland ClinicHow exercise can boost brain power – from the University of British ColumbiaHow to Exercise for Better Brain Health, According to Experts – from EatingWell

In Episode 3 of Defy Dementia, we dive deep into the role of cognitive engagement in protecting brain health. Join co-hosts Jay Ingram and Dr. Allison Sekuler, as they embark on a captivating conversation with Dr. Rebecca Chopp, former Chancellor of the University of Denver, who continues to thrive after her diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease by making the choice to engage her brain daily and live with joy. We also connect with Dr. Nicole Anderson, Senior Scientist at Baycrest's Rotman Research Institute, to uncover the science behind cognitive engagement and how it can reduce dementia risk. Tune in for a wealth of practical tips and expert advice that will empower you to stimulate your brain and defy dementia.  Provide feedback about the Defy Dementia podcast, video and infographics by filling out a short survey Additional resources: Baycrest’s Kimel Family Centre for Brain Health & WellnessCognitive Health and Older Adults – from the National Institute on Aging15 Things You Can Do Now to Reduce Your Risk of Dementia – by Baycrest’s Dr. Howard Chertkow15 Things You Can Do Now to Reduce Your Risk of Dementia: #5 Stimulating Activities – video featuring Baycrest’s Dr. Howard ChertkowTrain Your Brain – from Harvard HealthIkigai: The Japanese Secret to a Joyful Life – from the Government of Japan

Welcome back to Defy Dementia! This exciting new episode explores the role of social isolation and loneliness as risk factors for dementia. Hosts Jay Ingram and Dr. Allison Sekuler talk to Myrna Norman, who was diagnosed with fronto-temporal dementia 15 years ago, and hear about her inspiring journey to overcome self-isolation. Then, they discuss how loneliness physically affects the brain with Dr. Michelle Carlson, professor of mental health at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Tune in to find out how loneliness and social isolation may be harming you, and how you can take steps to overcome it and support your emotional and cognitive well-being today.  Visit defydementia.org for our accompanying minute video and infographic. Provide feedback about the Defy Dementia podcast, video and infographics by filling out a short survey.