September is World Alzheimer’s Month, and this episode's guest knows a thing or two about that horrific disease. Dr. Katherine Gifford is an assistant professor in The Department of Neurology at VUMC. Her research focuses on disorders of aging, dementia, and developing tools for early detection of cognitive impairment. She also sees patients within the Cognitive and Behavioral Clinic at VUMC. Additionally, Dr. Gifford is the neuropsychologist in the Vanderbilt Sports Concussion Center, where she treats patients 12 and older who have sustained a sports-related concussion. AND—she is the consulting neuropsychologist for the NFL Tenn Titans, the NHL Nashville Predators, the MLS Nashville Soccer Club, and Vanderbilt Athletics.

Dr. Gifford defines dementia, Alzheimer's, and normal brain aging. She discusses those behaviors that are a part of normal aging and those that are problematic or abnormal. She explains what causes Alzheimer's, the disease's progression, and protective and preventative behaviors we can incorporate into our lives. Unfortunately, this terrifying disease affects every single one of us in some way. Why do some get it and others don't?

Other topics we reference in this podcast episode:

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Do the Next New Thing is out and available at your local bookstores, my local bookstore, or on Amazon.