“Each New Day, A New Page: Embracing Optimism While Living with Alzheimer’s”

📝 Show Notes for Episode 17: Embracing Inspiration and Optimism

In this heartfelt episode, Janna, an Alzheimer's thriver, and her husband Larry share an intimate anniversary conversation that turns into something truly profound. Through reflections on memory, environment, and emotional overwhelm, Janna reveals a powerful epiphany she received in a dream: that each new day is a page in the continuing story of her life.

No longer focused on what she has lost, Janna is choosing to embrace what she still can do—with joy, humor, and clarity. The episode touches on:
- How sound and sensory overload affect Alzheimer's communication
- A breakthrough with nighttime muscle cramps (thanks to a new salt supplement!)
- The creative process of reframing daily life as an evolving story
- The difference between passive acceptance and active embracing of one’s reality
- Living with intention, purpose, and spiritual awareness in Alzheimer’s

This episode is a celebration of resilience, love, and the human spirit’s ability to reframe challenge into creativity.

🔗 Resources & Related Studies

- Sense of Purpose & Lower Dementia Risk – NIH/PMC:

- Purpose and Brain Health – Rush University:

- Fewer Behavioral Symptoms with Greater Life Purpose – Taylor & Francis:

- Positive Psychology in Cognitive Decline

- Narrative Identity & Life Story Tools – Springer:

- Reminiscence Therapy in Dementia – PMC Review:

- Daily Meaningful Activities for Alzheimer’s – Dementia UK:

- Art & Identity – “I Remember Better When I Paint” Documentary: https://www.irememberbetterwhenipaint.com/

🌐 Visit Us

For more stories and ways to stay connected, visit:

https://www.alzheimersthriver.org

Be sure to go to our website at alzheimersthriver.org to learn more about Larry and Janna's adventures.