Episodes

Dr. Mia speaks with Kirstin Thomas, co-founder and president of KindredMind, about how her mother's Alzheimer's and vascular dementia shaped her caregiving journey and inspired a technology companion for people living with dementia. They explain how familiar-voice and face-to-face features aim to ease the anxiety from repetitive calls and support connection, while discussing privacy safeguards, dementia-care principles, and the limits caregivers must learn to accept. Kirstin Thomas is t...

Dr. Mia speaks with Senior-Care Executive Chef Craig Bowerson, a longtime kitchen professional who developed a resident-led menu system, about bringing choice, personal history, and better food to assisted-living dining. They explore practical ways caregivers can use familiar recipes and cooking together to nourish relationships, including when dementia or limited time complicates meal preparation. Craig Bowerson is an Executive Chef who believes our most vulnerable deserve a higher level of ca...

In this episode, Dr. Mia talks with Andy Tubman, a music therapist and co-founder of SingFit, about how music therapy and innovative technology can improve quality of life for people with dementia and their caregivers. They explore the science behind music's impact on the brain, practical applications, and how Sing Fit's platform supports emotional and cognitive health. Visit https://www.singfit.com/ to create a free account and then download the app from your preferred app store. Andy Tubman ...

In this episode, Dr. Mia talks with Caroline Shelby, a grief educator and caregiver, about navigating grief, especially in the context of caring for loved ones with dementia. They explore practical strategies for coping, the importance of acknowledging grief, and how to find clarity amidst chaos. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Grief and Caregiving Challenges 03:36 Meet Caroline Shelby: A Grief Educator and Caregiver 04:25 What Would You Tell Your Past Self During Grief? 08:39 Practical Ways to...

Send us Fan Mail Dr. Mia provides a comprehensive update on anti-amyloid therapy for Alzheimer's disease, covering recent drug developments, diagnostic processes, and treatment considerations. This episode is essential for understanding how these therapies work, their benefits, risks, and what patients and caregivers should know. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to anti-amyloid therapy updates 02:12 Understanding Alzheimer's disease and dementia 03:59 Biological markers and diagnosis of Alzheimer...

Send us Fan Mail Season 8 kicks off with Dr. Mia interviewing Jennifer Riggs, a caregiver and dementia care expert, about her personal journey caring for her father with dementia and the practical techniques she has learned to support individuals with dementia and their caregivers. Jennifer Riggs is the Director of Dementia Services at Dementia Family Support, a Certified Dementia Practitioner, and a Positive Approach to Care (PAC) Certified Trainer, Consultant, and Coach. She has spent her c...

Send us Fan Mail Dr. Mia shares a sneak peek into the research presented at Alzheimer's Association International Conference (AAIC) in London from July 2026. More to come in season 8 of the podcast, returning Sept 1st! Hit the + sign in Apple podcast or follow in Spotify to save this show! Support the show Video on Ask Dr. Mia YouTube channel Transcripts on www.miayangmd.com. Transcripts are automatically generated and may contain minor inaccuracies. Email: ask@miayangmd.com Opinions expressed...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Dr. Mia welcomes Dr. Monique Nugent to discuss how caregivers can effectively advocate for loved ones in hospital settings. Dr. Nugent is also the author of Prescription for Admission: The Power and Potential of Hospital Medicine, a must-read for patients, caregivers, and medical professionals alike. This book offers an inside look at hospital care, breaking down complex medical processes and providing actionable insights for anyone interacting with the healt...

Send us Fan Mail This episode features Gina and Allie from Care Patrol discussing the complexities of transitioning seniors into retirement communities. They share insights on planning, choosing the right care level, understanding state regulations, and navigating family dynamics to ensure a smooth and suitable move. Allie Spangler, OTR/L, CSA brings extensive experience and deep passion for helping others. She has supported hundreds of families in navigating care options for their loved one...

Send us Fan Mail In this insightful interview, Annie Guest shares her journey through caregiving, the importance of radical acceptance, and how interior design can support mental health during challenging times. Discover practical tips for managing burnout, decluttering, and creating spaces that nurture the mind and body. Annie Guest had a varied career in book publishing, advertising, and law, before she took another jump to work as a mental health therapist and publish her first book. In ...

Send us Fan Mail This episode covers recent advances in Alzheimer's research, including the potential link between shingles vaccination and dementia prevention, the biological shifts in aging, and promising biomarkers and treatments like lithium. Dr. Mia discusses how these findings could impact future therapies and personal health decisions. Shingles Vaccine: The Wales/Australia Natural Experiment in Cell: https://www.cell.com/cell/fulltext/S0092-8674(25)01256-5?_returnURL=https%3A%2F%2Flin...

Send us Fan Mail In this insightful interview, Sue Lloyd-Davies discusses her book Pinkie’s Turnabout (Fitzroy, February 2026), inspired by her own experiences caring for a loved one with dementia and her work with children in caregiving situations. The conversation explores the emotional journey of caregiving, the importance of understanding dementia, and how families can foster open conversations about these challenges. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Pinky's Turnabout 00:54 Inspiration Beh...

Send us Fan Mail In this heartfelt interview, Karen McGovern shares her personal and professional journey caring for loved ones at the end of life, highlighting the importance of compassion, preparation, and presence. Discover insights into end-of-life care, the role of doulas, and how to navigate grief and caregiving with grace. About Karon Keller McGovern Certified End of Life Doula (2022) National Accreditation (2026) Reiki Master (2016) and Reverend - Celebrations of Life & Weddings (...

Send a text Dr. Mia explores the groundbreaking Finger Study, a global research project on brain health and Alzheimer's prevention. Discover how lifestyle changes like exercise, diet, and cognitive activities can significantly improve brain resilience and delay cognitive decline. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Pointer Study 02:44 Understanding the US Pointer Recipe 05:28 The Role of Exercise in Brain Health 08:16 Dietary Impacts on Cognitive Function 10:57 Gut-Brain Connection and Its I...

Send a text In this conversation, Dr. Mia and Dr. Catherine Madison discuss the complexities of caregiving for individuals with dementia, drawing from personal experiences and professional insights. They explore the importance of understanding advanced care planning, and the vulnerability of dementia patients to health challenges. The discussion also covers legal considerations for caregivers, tools for initiating end-of-life conversations, and lifestyle changes that can enhance brain health....

Send a text Ever wonder why the news reports on Alzheimer's causes are so confusing and what's the fuss about these amyloid plaques? This conversation delves into the evolving understanding of Alzheimer's disease, highlighting the shift from traditional diagnosis of exclusion to new definition by underlying pathology. Dr. Mia explains the differences between Alzheimer's disease and dementia, the role of amyloid plaques and tau tangles, and the complexities of diagnosing and treating Alz...

Send us a text In this conversation, Alex Drane and Dr. Mia discuss the challenges and realities of unpaid caregiving, emphasizing the importance of self-identification, data, and community support. They explore how caregivers often overlook their own needs while focusing on those they care for, and the necessity of finding respite and grace in their roles. The discussion also touches on the impact of caregiving on mental health, especially during stressful times like the holidays, and the ne...

Send us a text In this episode, Dr. Mia talks about the common questions that come up in memory clinic such as: Chapters 00:00 Understanding Dementia and Alzheimer's Basics 02:54 Differentiating Between Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and Dementia 06:19 Exploring Types of Dementia 11:01 Stages of Dementia Explained Support the show Video on Ask Dr. Mia YouTube channel Transcripts on www.miayangmd.com. Transcripts are automatically generated and may contain minor inaccuracies. Email: ask@miaya...

Send us a text The "Mom, You're Grounded Podcast" hosts Allison and Jennifer discuss the GUIDE program with Dr. Mia, an innovative Medicare initiative designed to support caregivers and patients through comprehensive services and respite care. Mia Yang, a geriatrician, shares her expertise and insights on GUIDE (GUiding an Improved Dementia Experience) program. Self refer: GuideAHWFB@advocatehealth.org -NC Triad Guide@advocatehealth.org- NC greater Charlotte area www.MiaYangMD.com ...

Send us a text In this episode of the Ask Dr. Mia podcast, Dr. Mia speaks with Jodi Colada, a director of caregiver outreach, about engaging activities for family caregivers of loved ones living with dementia. They discuss the challenges caregivers face in getting their loved ones to participate in activities, the importance of creating a supportive environment, and various creative expressions that can foster connection. Jodi shares practical tips, resources, and tools to help caregivers eng...

Send us a text In this conversation, Dr. Mia discusses her personal experiences with caregiving and grief, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's role as a caregiver, the challenges of caregiver burnout, and the necessity of seeking support. She reflects on her relationship with her mother and the complexities of love and acceptance in the context of caregiving. Important Resources from this episode; Archangels Caregiver Quiz and Resources https://www.archangels.me/for-caregi...

Send us a text In this episode, Dr. Mia discusses the top misconceptions surrounding dementia and Alzheimer's disease, emphasizing the importance of understanding the differences between the two, the complexities of diagnosing dementia, and the implications of early diagnosis. She also addresses the common belief that Medicare covers in-home care for dementia patients and clarifies the realities of dementia care funding. https://www.cms.gov/priorities/innovation/innovation-models/guide Chapt...

Send us a text In this episode, Dr. Mia and Dr. Christina Hugenschmidt discuss their insights from the Alzheimer's Association International Conference (AAIC 2025) this summer, and the importance of early diagnosis and lifestyle interventions. They explore the gut-brain connection, innovative drug research, and the impact of nutrition and environmental factors on cognitive health. The conversation emphasizes the need for social engagement and support for caregivers, highlighting the multiface...

Send us a text In this episode, Dr. Mia provides a comprehensive overview of Medicare and Medicaid, explaining their differences, coverage options, and the implications of recent legislative changes. She emphasizes the importance of understanding these programs, especially for vulnerable populations, including the elderly and immigrants. The discussion also highlights the challenges faced by those needing long-term care and the critical role of advocacy in shaping healthcare policy. Chapters...