Recognizing Dementia: When to Be Concerned and What to Do

Memory changes can be a normal part of aging, but when do they signal something more serious? In part one of this two-part series, Dr. Eve Glazier speaks with Kemi Reeves, DNP, GNP-BC, associate director of the UCLA Alzheimer's and Dementia Care Program and director of nursing health care equity at UCLA Health, about what dementia is and how it appears in everyday life. They explore how dementia goes beyond memory loss, impacting thinking, behavior, and daily function — from managing medications to navigating familiar routines. The conversation also covers how sleep, mood, medications, and overall health influence cognitive changes, and when it's time to seek medical care.
Podcast Credits for UCLA Health Medically Speaking with Dr. Eve Glazier:
• Host: Dr. Eve Glazier
• Executive Producers: Annie Krasnow, Michael Burke, Suzanne Koudsi Walker
• Producers: Niki Miller, Jessica Alabastro
• Creative Producer: Kanza Shaheen
• Social Media and Communications: Bonnie Kim
• Technical Directors: Adrian Cardoso, Andrew Stocks
• Editor: Tony Sweet
• Recorded at: Canella Media
Special thanks to our expert guests and the incredible staff across UCLA Health who make this podcast possible. A special thank you to Johnese Spisso, President of UCLA Health and CEO of the UCLA Hospital System, for her visionary leadership and support. We are also grateful to the patients and families whose stories inspire our work every day.
Produced by: UCLA Health Communications & Marketing
Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.