Professor Amy Brodtmann is a cognitive neurologist, with a research background in stroke, neuroimaging and dementia.

Amy sheds light on the intricate world of dementia, revealing it as more than just a blanket term for memory loss. Just as heart disease signifies heart failure and kidney disease points to kidney failure, dementia represents a profound brain failure that transcends simple forgetfulness. It disrupts multiple cognitive domains, profoundly altering how a person interacts with the world.

Amy, a cognitive neurologist, talks about the extraordinary complexity of the brain, and how its breakdown manifests in dementia. She illuminates the role of neurology and its various subspecialties, detailing how cognitive neurologists like herself tackle the challenging task of diagnosing and managing dementia. Understanding whether a memory issue is indicative of dementia or merely a 'bad day' requires a deep dive into a patient’s history, neurological examination, cognitive tests, brain imaging, and neuropsychological evaluations.

The conversation extends to the broader need for community education and support about dementia. Amy's research is at the forefront of improving the diagnostic journey for dementia, investigating life factors that influence the likelihood of developing the condition, and pioneering brain health optimization strategies, including tailored exercise prescriptions.

She also addresses the nuances between different types of dementia, such as the variations between vascular dementia and Alzheimer's disease, and how symptoms can differ. Amy explains how strokes can lead to cognitive impairment or dementia and underscores the critical importance of managing risk factors post-stroke to bolster brain function. Her insights offer a comprehensive understanding of dementia, highlighting both the challenges and advancements in this vital field.

“Don’t worry about worrying about your thinking, do something about it.”

Hosted by Darshini Ayton and Sarah Carmody

Produced by Darshini Ayton

An initiative of the Centre of Research Excellence in Enhanced Dementia Diagnosis which is funded by the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council

Professor Dimity Pond is a general practitioner and has honorary Professor positions at Newcastle University, University of New England and the University of Tasmania with the Wicking Dementia Research and Teaching Centre. Dimity has a passion and interest in dementia and aged care.

In this episode, Dimity emphasises the pivotal role of general practitioners (GPs) in diagnosing dementia and guiding patients through the complex pathway of referral and care. Having a regular GP is invaluable; someone who knows you well can spot subtle changes in memory and function and offer support when you need it most. GPs play a crucial role in connecting patients with community services early on, such as registering with My Aged Care. Importantly, Dimity highlights that a dementia diagnosis doesn’t diminish one's individuality or choices; with the right support systems, individuals can continue pursuing their passions and maintaining a fulfilling life. She advocates the role of secondary prevention where diet, exercise, and social engagement can slow dementia's progression. Family members are encouraged to voice concerns about potential dementia symptoms to a GP. We also discuss with Dimity the role of cognitive screening in primary care and the importance of ensuring screening is in response to raised concerns or known risk factors.

"If you have seen one person with dementia, you have seen one person with dementia. Because dementia presents in many many different ways. And people with dementia have different strengths, different abilities and different ways in which that disease affects them. We need to work with them as individuals."

Hosted by Darshini Ayton and Sarah Carmody

Produced by Darshini Ayton

Music by Luke Champion

An initiative of the Centre of Research Excellence in Enhanced Dementia Diagnosis which is funded by the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council.

Professor Scott Ayton is the Director of the Centre of Research Excellence in Enhanced Dementia Diagnosis (CREEDD) and head of the Dementia Mission and the Translational Neurodegeneration Group at The Florey Neuroscience Institute.

In this episode, Professor Scott Ayton shares with us the intriguing world of neuroscience, shedding light on how it intertwines with psychology, biochemistry, and physiology to unlock the mysteries of the brain. He offers a glimpse into a typical day for a neuroscientist, from pioneering research on diagnosing neurological conditions using cutting-edge imaging and blood tests to hands-on work in the lab, where neurons are grown and exposed to various chemicals to unravel the complexities of dementia.

Scott passionately discusses the transformative biomedical revolution currently underway and highlights how recent breakthroughs in dementia research are set to revolutionize the diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's Disease. As the Director of the Centre of Research Excellence in Enhanced Dementia Diagnosis, he plays a crucial role in translating innovative research diagnostic tests into clinical practice, aiming to enhance diagnostic accuracy and bolster doctors' confidence.

Listeners will gain insight into the evolving understanding of Alzheimer's disease pathologies and the impact of new blood tests in detecting these conditions. Scott underscores how increased investment in dementia research has fuelled these advancements, emphasizing their critical role in the ongoing development of diagnostics and treatments that promise to reshape our approach to dementia care.

“I really believe in the power of research to change the world.”

“Dementia is a disease. It's an abnormality. It's not what happens during aging. It is something abnormal. And that's the good news, because if it is a disease, we can intervene, as we have for countless other diseases.”

Hosted by Darshini Ayton and Sarah Carmody

Produced by Darshini Ayton

Music by Luke Champion

An initiative of the Centre of Research Excellence in Enhanced Dementia Diagnosis which is funded by the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council.