Alzheimer's stigma kills independence before the disease does. You notice memory problems but wait years to mention them because you're afraid of what it means. Assisted living. Lost autonomy. Friends treating you differently. Meanwhile, the stigma stops you from getting help that could let you live alone, advocate for yourself, and maintain the life you built.

Jacobs trains with people living with Alzheimer's who own their diagnosis publicly. Mario, living with the disease since 2008, teaches accessibility and gives tips on maintaining independence while living alone. The catch: he got early diagnosis and sought help immediately. Jacobs' survey found half of Canadians worry about Alzheimer's and two-thirds fear losing independence. The irony: stigma creates the exact outcome people fear. Caregivers notice symptoms first but don't know how to start the conversation without implying something's wrong.

Learn how the Alzheimer's Society helps families start difficult conversations. Discover why speaking to the person with dementia directly, not their caregiver, matters. Understand what tools preserve independence when diagnosis comes early.

GUEST: Natasha Jacobs | http://www.alzheimer.ca

Originally aired on 2026-01-16

Alzheimer's stigma kills independence before the disease does. You notice memory problems but wait years to mention them because you're afraid of what it means. Assisted living. Lost autonomy. Friends treating you differently. Meanwhile, the stigma stops you from getting help that could let you live alone, advocate for yourself, and maintain the life you built.
Jacobs trains with people living with Alzheimer's who own their diagnosis publicly. Mario, living with the disease since 2008, teaches accessibility and gives tips on maintaining independence while living alone. The catch: he got early diagnosis and sought help immediately. Jacobs' survey found half of Canadians worry about Alzheimer's and two-thirds fear losing independence. The irony: stigma creates the exact outcome people fear. Caregivers notice symptoms first but don't know how to start the conversation without implying something's wrong.
Learn how the Alzheimer's Society helps families start difficult conversations. Discover why speaking to the person with dementia directly, not their caregiver, matters. Understand what tools preserve independence when diagnosis comes early.
GUEST: Natasha Jacobs |<a href="http://www.alzheimer.ca"> http://www.alzheimer.ca</a>
Originally aired on&nbsp;2026-01-16

Shane Hewitt & The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world—always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.

From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane’s signature style—thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.

If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt &amp; The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world&mdash;always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.
From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane&rsquo;s signature style&mdash;thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.
If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt and The Nightshift

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.