Alzheimer’s Disease: Holding onto joy

This episode features Laura Barr talking about caring for her wife, Jean, who has Alzheimer’s Disease. Laura tells the story of Jean’s diagnosis and decline and reflects on the decisions she has had to make along the way around Jean’s care. This episode also brings listeners into the world of institutional care, as Jean moves into Rogerson House, a dementia facility in the Jamaica Plain neighborhood of Boston. We also meet Dr. Adam Burrows, the Medical Director of PACE, a program designed to support frail elders so they can remain in their homes, but also supports people if they require institutional care. And Miss Lygia Angel, a Recreation Assistant at Rogerson House, has a cameo, reflecting on the activities she runs that engage residents.