The year 2025 was full of breakthroughs, debates, and big questions in Alzheimer’s research. One event that shaped many of these conversations? The Clinical Trials on Alzheimer’s Disease (CTAD) Conference. It may not have been on everyone’s radar, but its impact was undeniable.

In this special episode, Penn Memory Center Co-Directors Dr. Jason Karlawish and Dr. David Wolk share what stood out at CTAD, what’s changing in the field, and what to watch next.

Inside this episode:

• Anti-amyloid therapies update: Where things stand with lecanemab and donanemab, and what the next generation of these drugs could look like

• GLP-1 disappointment: Why Novo Nordisk’s semaglutide trials for Alzheimer’s disease came up short

• Lifestyle interventions: The latest findings from the POINTER Study and what they mean for brain health

Resources available on the episode webpage linked below

• Visit CTAD’s website

• More information on anti-amyloid therapies

• Novo Nordisk’s announcement of negative results “EVOKE” and “EVOKE+” trials

• More information on the POINTER Study

Special thanks this episode to Jason Karlawish, MD and David Wolk, MD.

The Age of Aging is a Penn Memory Center production hosted by Editorial Director Terrence Casey and Producer Jake Johnson, in partnership with the Penn FTD Center, the Penn Institute on Aging, and Penn’s Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center. Contributors include Nicolette Calcavecchia, Dalia Elsaid, Jason Karlawish, Emily Largent, and Meaghan Sharp.

The Age of Aging is made possible by generous support from the Michael Naidoff Communications Hub fund and our sponsors, the TIAA Institute and Rothkoff Law Group. The TIAA Institute is a think tank committed to building knowledge that advances lifelong financial security and well-being while considering the intersections of health and wealth. Their cutting-edge research provides actionable financial and longevity insights that help individuals and employers navigate the complex journey of aging.

Caring for an aging loved one isn’t easy — but you don’t have to do it alone. At Rothkoff Law Group, we guide families across New Jersey and Pennsylvania through every stage of your aging journey. Our team of elder care attorneys, geriatric care coordinators, and public benefits specialists advocate for your loved one’s well-being and your peace of mind. Rothkoff Law Group — your partner in advocacy and senior care planning, every step of the way. Visit RothkoffLaw.com.

Art that tries to teach you things “stinks,” says playwright and actor Jake Broder.

“And yet there is a profound need for education, for awareness, for reducing stigma, for supporting the community and for medical education,” he said. A few years ago, while writing his latest play about the two individuals with frontotemporal dementia, he wrestled with how he could do both.

In the season 4 finale of the Age of Aging, we tell the story of UnRavelled, a play about perseverance through neurodegeneration, burgeoning creativity late in life and an artistic relationship across time. Producer Jake Johnson shares his first-hand experience of the play’s premiere and how it combined theater with community outreach and education.

What’s inside:

• A historical perspective on composer Maurice Ravel’s brain condition and his work, “Bolero.”

• An explanation from Dr. Bruce Miller on the relationship between frontotemporal degeneration and creativity.

• Jake Broder’s insight into the inspiration and creation of the play as well as the associated Brain Health Festival.
• The perspective of the show’s director and cast on creating the play and its core themes.

Resources available on the episode webpage linked below

• Listen to Maurice Ravell’s Bolero

• Learn more about Dr. Bruce Miller

• Listen to Unraveling Bolero (Radiolab)

• Learn more about Jake Broder

• More information on For Their Thoughts Foundation

• Visit the official website of UnRavelled

• Subscribe to the Age of Aging Newsletter

Special thanks this episode to Dr. Bruce Miller, Jake Broder, Betsy Hall, Lucy Davenport, James Bonas, Leo Marks, Tracy Leigh, and the entire UnRavelled team.

The Age of Aging is a Penn Memory Center production hosted by Editorial Director Terrence Casey and Producer Jake Johnson, in partnership with the Penn FTD Center, the Penn Institute on Aging, and Penn’s Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center. Contributors include Nicolette Calcavecchia, Dalia Elsaid, Jason Karlawish, Emily Largent, and Meaghan Sharp.

The Age of Aging is made possible by generous support from the Michael Naidoff Communications Hub fund and our sponsors, the TIAA Institute and Rothkoff Law Group. The TIAA Institute is a think tank committed to building knowledge that advances lifelong financial security and well-being while considering the intersections of health and wealth. Their cutting-edge research provides actionable financial and longevity insights that help individuals and employers navigate the complex journey of aging.

Caring for an aging loved one isn’t easy — but you don’t have to do it alone. At Rothkoff Law Group, we guide families across New Jersey and Pennsylvania through every stage of your aging journey. Our team of elder care attorneys, geriatric care coordinators, and public benefits specialists advocate for your loved one’s well-being and your peace of mind. Rothkoff Law Group — your partner in advocacy and senior care planning, every step of the way. Visit RothkoffLaw.com.

If you asked most caregivers, they would probably say there’s nothing funny about caring for someone with dementia. The stress, grief, and frustration can feel overwhelming. But what if the principles of improv comedy — being present, saying “yes,” and working together — could make caregiving easier and more joyful?

In this episode of the Age of Aging, we explore the surprising connection between improv and dementia care. You’ll hear how techniques from the stage are helping caregivers reduce stress, improve communication, and find moments of joy.

What’s inside:

• A peek inside the Penn Memory Center’s Cognitive Comedy class, where caregivers and people living with dementia learn improv basics.

• Dr. Anne Basting on why asking questions and staying present matters in tough caregiving moments.

• Improv teacher and elder care educator Karen Stobbe shares her personal story of using improv to care for her mother with Alzheimer’s.

• Researchers Dr. Candace Kemp, Dr. Jennifer Craft Morgan, and Amanda Lee Williams discuss the science behind improv’s benefits for caregivers.

• Leah Lawler, creator of Cognitive Comedy, explains why teaching improv to older adults is her passion.

Whether you’re a caregiver, a healthcare professional, or simply curious about creative approaches to aging, this episode offers practical insights and inspiring stories that will change the way you think about care.

Resources available on the episode webpage linked below

• Check out the Penn Memory Center’s Cognitive Comedy class

• Learn more about improv (UChicago News)

• Explore Timeslips’ website

• Learn more about Anne Basting

• Check out Karen Stobbe’s “In the Moment”

• Listen to Karen and Mondy’s story in This American Life

• Read Dr. Kemp and Dr. Morgan’s study on improv and dementia care (The Gerontologist)

• Watch more of Leah Lawler talking about Cognitive Comedy

• A list of improv games/exercises (improvencylcopedia.org)

Special thanks this episode to Jean Haskell and her Cognitive Comedy participants, Barry and Ray, as well as Anne Basting, PhD, Karen Stobbe, Candace Kemp, PhD, Jennifer Craft Morgan, PhD, and Amanda Lee Williams.

T Age of Aging is a Penn Memory Center production hosted by Editorial Director Terrence Casey and Producer Jake Johnson, in partnership with the Penn FTD Center, the Penn Institute on Aging, and Penn’s Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center. Contributors include Nicolette Calcavecchia, Dalia Elsaid, Jason Karlawish, Emily Largent, and Meaghan Sharp.

The Age of Aging is made possible by generous support from the Michael Naidoff Communications Hub fund and our sponsors, the TIAA Institute and Rothkoff Law Group. The TIAA Institute is a think tank committed to building knowledge that advances lifelong financial security and well-being while considering the intersections of health and wealth. Their cutting-edge research provides actionable financial and longevity insights that help individuals and employers navigate the complex journey of aging.

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Artificial intelligence is everywhere in 2025, and elder care is no exception. As the older adult population continues to grow, AI has the potential to provide desperately needed support. Both at home and in the hospital, AI systems are being developed that can summarize data, predict patient outcomes, and offer preventative interventions. These systems could help clinicians be more efficient as well as shoulder some of caregivers’ many responsibilities. Yet for as many problems as AI seems to solve in healthcare, many more questions arise as to how these innovative tools can be implemented ethically.

On this episode of the Age of Aging, we take a deep dive into the developing role of AI in the care of older adults.

We first hear from expert researchers in this space about the potential ways AI could be used to assist in the lives of older adults. Then, the co-founder of New Days AI, Dr. Babak Parviz, discusses how his company utilizes AI to help older adults protect against dementia. Finally, we look into the potential challenges and ethical questions that come with implementing AI in dementia care.

Resources available on the episode webpage linked below

• NASA’s definition of artificial intelligence

• Learn more about Dr. Alex Mihailidis

• More on Dr. George Demiris

• More information on Penn AI Tech

• Visit New Days AI’s website

• Learn more about Dr. Mai Lee Chang

• More information on Oonjee Oh

• “AI Photos” (Saturday Night Live)

Special thanks this episode to Alex Mihailidis PhD, PEng, George Demiris PhD, FACMI, Babak Parviz, PhD, Mai Lee Chang, PhD, and Oonjee Oh, MSN, RN

The Age of Aging is a Penn Memory Center production hosted by Editorial Director Terrence Casey and Producer Jake Johnson, in partnership with the Penn FTD Center, the Penn Institute on Aging, and Penn’s Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center. Contributors include Nicolette Calcavecchia, Dalia Elsaid, Jason Karlawish, Emily Largent, and Meaghan Sharp.

The Age of Aging is made possible by generous support from the Michael Naidoff Communications Hub fund and our sponsors, the TIAA Institute and Rothkoff Law Group. The TIAA Institute is a think tank committed to building knowledge that advances lifelong financial security and well-being while considering the intersections of health and wealth. Their cutting-edge research provides actionable financial and longevity insights that help individuals and employers navigate the complex journey of aging.

Caring for an aging loved one isn’t easy — but you don’t have to do it alone. At Rothkoff Law Group, we guide families across New Jersey and Pennsylvania through every stage of your aging journey. Our team of elder care attorneys, geriatric care coordinators, and public benefits specialists advocate for your loved one’s well-being and your peace of mind. Rothkoff Law Group — your partner in advocacy and senior care planning, every step of the way. Visit RothkoffLaw.com.

Innovation in dementia care is revolutionizing the way we diagnose and treat older adults with neurodegenerative diseases. New tests have allowed doctors to diagnose patients with diseases like Alzheimer’s more accurately than ever before. The anti-amyloid therapies Lecanemab and Donanemab provide a real treatment for those living with Alzheimer’s. While these innovations are incredible for those experiencing dementia, they are also beginning to change our culture around dementia generally.

On this episode of the Age of Aging, Terrence Casey sits down with Dr. Jason Karlawish to talk about major steps forward in dementia care and how they’re changing the way we speak about dementia.

The topics in this conversation are pulled directly from the Dr. Karlawish’s new column, Neurotransmissions, in STAT News. Dr. Karlawish discusses the stigma-based way we talk about dementia in popular culture and the damage it does to older adults. He explains how new diagnostic tests and treatments are reshaping this culture by providing patients and caregivers with greater knowledge of their condition as well as hope for improvement. Dr. Karlawish said these changes will ultimately reduce the stigma associated with dementia and allow for further progress in the care of older adults.

Resources available on the episode webpage linked below

• Read Dr. Karlawish’s column, Neurotransmissions, on STAT News

• Read Illness as a Metaphor and AIDS and Its Metaphors by Susan Sontag

• Learn more about LATE

• Read Joshua Grill’s piece in the Philadelphia Inquirer

Special thanks to Dr. Jason Karlawish, MD, for being a part of this episode.

The Age of Aging is a Penn Memory Center production hosted by Editorial Director Terrence Casey and Producer Jake Johnson, in partnership with the Penn FTD Center, the Penn Institute on Aging, and Penn’s Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center. Contributors include Nicolette Calcavecchia, Dalia Elsaid, Jason Karlawish, Emily Largent, and Meaghan Sharp.

The Age of Aging is made possible by generous support from the Michael Naidoff Communications Hub fund and our sponsors, the TIAA Institute and Rothkoff Law Group. The TIAA Institute is a think tank committed to building knowledge that advances lifelong financial security and well-being while considering the intersections of health and wealth. Their cutting-edge research provides actionable financial and longevity insights that help individuals and employers navigate the complex journey of aging.

Caring for an aging loved one isn’t easy — but you don’t have to do it alone. At Rothkoff Law Group, we guide families across New Jersey and Pennsylvania through every stage of your aging journey. Our team of elder care attorneys, geriatric ca...

Although the Age of Aging often focuses on science, art has been a recurring theme. In Season 2, Episode 2, “Diet, Exercise, and... Doodling?”, we explored how creativity can support longevity. However, beyond art’s apparent health benefits, making and consuming art can also help us better understand the experience of aging. In many ways, the change and loss associated with aging are best understood through art.

Today’s episode of the Age of Aging looks once again at art creation in aging through the stories and work of three artists living with brain disease.

Joe Vanek, a stage designer for more than 40 years, experienced a stroke that changed how he viewed time and creativity.
Scott LaMascus left graduate school in poetry to care for his father with ALS, finding meaning through writing and reflection.
Neesa Becker-Procaccino, a professional illustrator, stopped working after an Alzheimer’s diagnosis but returned to art as a way to heal and connect.

Each artist faced disruption. Yet through art, each found a way to continue creating and redefining identity in the face of illness.

Resources available on the episode webpage linked below

• Watch the full video featuring Neesa Becker-Procaccino

• Learn more about Joe Vanek

• Read more of Joe Vanek’s story

• Read “Dispatches from the Dark Side of the Moon” and “Hesitant Light”

• Check out more of Joe Vanek’s illustrations

  • Saint Patrick

  • The Queen of Hearts

  • Our Lady Guadalupe

  • The Child of Prague

  • Nutcracker

  • The Snow Queen

• Follow Joe Vanek on Instagram

• Learn more about Scott LaMascus ...

Over the past year, the Age of Aging has spoken with expert clinicians who study the brain, as well as individuals living with neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. We believe that these two perspectives are essential for fully understanding dementia in 2025.

In today’s episode, we hear from someone who can speak to both perspectives.

Dr. Daniel Gibbs is a retired neurologist and author currently living with Alzheimer’s disease. Joined by his wife and caregiver, Lois Seed, he sat down with Age of Aging Executive Producer Dr. Jason Karlawish to discuss Dan’s experience. While the two physicians have had repeated conversations over the years concerning Dan’s diagnosis, Lois’ presence highlights how the disease has progressed and how their relationship has taken on new caregiving dynamics.

What you will hear is an authentic depiction of living with Alzheimer’s disease, along with insights on how a partner begins to care for that person’s changing mind.

Resources available on the episode webpage linked below

• Read A Tattoo on My Brain: A Neurologists Personal Battle with Alzheimer’s Disease.
• Watch the documentary, A Tattoo on My Brain
• Learn more about Dan and Lois’ story (American Heart Association)

• Read Dr. Daniel Gibbs’ blog

Special thanks to Daniel Gibbs, MD, PhD, and Lois Seed for being a part of this episode.

The Age of Aging is a Penn Memory Center production hosted by Editorial Director Terrence Casey and Producer Jake Johnson, in partnership with the Penn FTD Center, the Penn Institute on Aging, and Penn’s Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center. Contributors include Nicolette Calcavecchia, Dalia Elsaid, Jason Karlawish, Emily Largent, and Meaghan Sharpe.

The Age of Aging is made possible by generous support from the Michael Naidoff Communications Hub fund and our sponsor, the TIAA Institute. The TIAA Institute is a think tank committed to building knowledge that advances lifelong financial security and well-being while considering the intersections of health and wealth. Their cutting-edge research provides actionable financial and longevity insights that help individuals and employers navigate the complex journey of aging.

At the Penn Memory Center, we often recommend exercise, social engagement, and a solid support system to help people age well. Owning a dog is not on that list, but maybe it should be. For many older adults, dogs are more than companions. They’re motivators to stay active, reasons to connect with neighbors, and steady sources of comfort through life’s challenges. Emerging research suggests that that this age-old bond between humans and dogs may be one of our healthiest friendships. On this episode of The Age of Aging, we celebrate dogs, and how they might help us live long, healthy lives.

First, we hear from caregivers and dog owners about how their dogs help them care for their loved ones with dementia. Then, Professor Philip Tedeschi explains how humans’ co-evolution with dogs has made us perfect support system for one another. Lynn Cronomiz recounts how a powerful moment between a therapy dog and her mother with Alzheimer’s helped her process her mother’s passing. Finally, we explore humans’ inseparable connection with nature through the biophilia hypothesis.

Resources available on the episode webpage linked below

• Dog ownership in the U.S. statistics – American Veterinary Medical Association

• “2025 Alzheimer’s Facts and Figures” – Alzheimer’s Association

• Listen to Season 1 Episode 4, “Diagnosing Dementia,” featuring Lynn Cronomiz

• Learn more about the Insitute for Human-Animal Connection

• Visit KPETS, which Lynn Cronomiz does her therapy dog work with

• Learn more about the “biophilia hypothesis”

• Petfinder to adopt a pet near you

• Visit the American Kennel Club website for more information on dog breeds

Special thanks to Tom Casey, Miguel Centeno, Kathy Oldfield, Philip Tedeschi LCSW, MSSW, Lynn Cronomiz, and Carlo Siracusa DVM, PhD, DACVB, DECAWBM

The Age of Aging is a Penn Memory Center production hosted by Editorial Director Terrence Casey and Producer Jake Johnson, in partnership with the Penn FTD Center, the Penn Institute on Aging, and Penn’s Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center. Contributors include Nicolette Calcavecchia, Dalia Elsaid, Jason Karlawish, Emily Largent, and Meaghan Sharp.

The Age of Aging is made possible by generous support from the Michael Naidoff Communications Hub fund and our sponsor, the TIAA Institute. The TIAA Institute is a think tank committed to building knowledge that advances lifelong financial security and well-being while considering the intersections of health and wealth. Their cutting-edge research provides actionable financial and longevity insig...