Learn about Lewy Body Dementia, why it is difficult to diagnose, and the special challenges faced by caregivers.
My guest Mary Lou Falcone has been an advocate for Lewy body dementia awareness since her dear husband Nicky Zann died of the disease in 2020. Mary Lou is internationally known as a classical music publicist who has guided the careers of many celebrated artists such as Van Cliburn, Renée Fleming, and James Taylor. Her communication and strategy skills make her well-suited to be an ambassador for LBD awareness and she is committed to sharing her experience and factual information about LBD with the public. She is the author of the newly published book I Didn’t See it Coming: Scenes of Love, Loss, and Lewy Body Dementia. Learn more at her website:
This episode includes:
- Why Mary Lou decided to become a crusader for LBD awareness
- The difference between Alzheimer’s and Lewy Body Dementia
- The symptoms of LBD and why it is often difficult to diagnose
- The inspiration for writing this book
- Why LBD is little known by the general population
- How to cope as a caregiver with the fluctuating symptoms of LBD
- Survival strategies for LBD caregivers
- Helpful resources available for caregivers
Links mentioned in this episode:
- NY Times article about Mary Lou and her book
- CaringKind website – resources for dementia caregivers
- Lewy Body Dementia Resource Center
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