Health challenges can be overwhelming, especially when they affect the people we love. "Arkansas Talks Health" is a series of human-centered conversations on aging, cancer, research & innovation, opioid crisis & pain management, and diabetes & cardiometabolic health in Arkansas. It brings together experts and community voices to translate complex health topics into clear, trusted guidance that supports prevention, understanding, and better health decisions.
“Arkansas Talks Health” premieres Wednesday, July 15, at 6 p.m.
Episode 1: Alzheimer’s
Today, about 7.4 million Americans age 65 or older are living with Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia. In the premiere episode, experts from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) come together to answer some of the most common questions about dementia and provide practical guidance for navigating the journey.
The discussion explores what dementia is and how Alzheimer's disease affects the brain, the latest understanding of diagnosis and treatment, strategies for healthy aging and reducing risk, daily life after a diagnosis, the challenges facing caregivers, and the importance of planning ahead. The program also tackles common myths and misconceptions while offering encouragement that early recognition, informed medical care, supportive communities, and strong caregiver networks can make a meaningful difference.
Featured Experts
● Laura Spradley, MS, CDP, UAMS Geriatrics Education Collaborative (Host)
● Dr. Denise Compton, Ph.D., Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Geriatric Neuropsychologist, UAMS
● Dr. Robin McAtee, Ph.D., RN, Assistant Professor and Director, UAMS College of Medicine Department of Geriatrics
● Dr. Gohar Azhar, M.D., Professor of Geriatrics and Jackson T. Stephens Endowed Chair, UAMS Donald W. Reynolds Institute on Aging in the UAMS College of Medicine
● Dr. Elizabeth Eoff, M.D., Assistant Professor and Family Medicine Physician, UAMS Walker Memory Center
● Debbie Brady, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, UAMS
Helpful Resources
If you or a loved one is caring for someone with Alzheimer's disease or another form of dementia, support is available.
● Learn more about healthy physical activity at alz.org/us-pointer.
● For more information on resources, support services, caregiver programs and educational materials, visit agec.uams.edu.
Tune In
Watch the premiere of “Arkansas Talks Health” on Wednesday, July 15, at 6 p.m. live on broadcast or on YouTube at YouTube.com/@arkansastv.