PBS North Carolina, Alzheimer’s Association, Duke & UNC ADRC and the NC Registry for Brain Health proudly present —
Independent Lens’ “Matter of Mind: My Alzheimer’s” Preview Screening and Virtual Discussion
The Alzheimer’s Association Chapters in North Carolina are proud to participate in the virtual film screening of “Matter of Mind: My Alzheimer’s” and panel discussion on April 8 from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. Join us for this online event that focuses on caregiving, support and resiliency while living with Alzheimer’s. This event aims to provide valuable insights and information about navigating dementia.
Whether you are living with the disease, a caregiver, or simply interested in learning more, you will have the opportunity to connect with others, find support and participate in a Q + A discussion with local medical professionals, educators and advocates.
“Matter of Mind: My Alzheimer’s” is an intimate portrayal of three families confronting the unique challenges of Alzheimer’s and how this progressive neurodegenerative disease transforms roles and relationships. Whether it’s a partner becoming a caregiver or an adult child shifting into being their parent’s caretaker, these stories show how families evolve when a loved one is diagnosed.
Virtual Event Details:
- Tuesday, April 8 | 7 PM (ET)
- Take part from the convenience of your laptop, desktop, tablet or mobile device
- The link to join the virtual event can be found in your registration confirmation email and event reminder
Discussion topics will include:
- The impact of an Alzheimer’s diagnosis on the patient and their family
- The evolving role of caregivers
- Current research and available thearapies and treatments
- Local resources for patients, family members and caregivers
Panelists:
- Dr. Kathleen Welsh-Bohmer, Duke & UNC ARDC, research/clinical trials
- Lindsey Golden, director, state affairs, Alzheimer’s Association (NC chapters)
- Cate Mills, Alzheimer’s Association volunteer, advocate, and wife and care partner of Carter
- Carter Grine, Alzheimer’s Association volunteer, advocate, and living with younger-onset Alzheimer’s
- Dr. Mitchell T. Heflin, MD, MHS, Associate Dean and Director of the Center for Interprofessional Education and Care (IPEC) and Professor of Medicine in the Division of Geriatrics for Duke University School of Medicine/Medical Director of the Geriatric Evaluation and Treatment Clinic
- David Hurst, senior producer and correspondent for PBS North Carolina ncIMPACT, who recently produced a segment on aging
More about Matter of Mind: My Alzheimer’s
The film is the final installment in a series on neurodegenerative diseases, centering on three families living with Alzheimer’s disease, a type of dementia that causes significant memory loss, speech difficulties, and behavioral shifts.
Andrea is a single woman in her 30s, living in a small Michigan town. When her mother, Kristy, is diagnosed with young-onset Alzheimer’s disease, Andrea becomes her primary caregiver. As Kristy’s illness progresses, Andrea searches for a way to move to a larger city where they can connect with a broader community and find more support.
Carlos Olivas III must move home to Sacramento when he unexpectedly becomes a caregiver for his father who begins experiencing Alzheimer’s symptoms. After a difficult period of acclimation, Carlos embraces his role and ultimately becomes an advocate for caregivers at the California State Capitol. His father, in his 80s, reignites his artistic passion and immerses himself in drawing each day as his condition progresses.
Living in New York City, Janice and Sue have been a dynamic couple for over four decades. Sue’s symptoms began about 10 years ago, and Janice balances her own work as a theater director and tour guide with her caregiving for Sue. The pair surmounts obstacles with humor and flexibility, though the progression of the illness threatens their equilibrium.
The film explores how disease impacts identities and relationships—when one partner becomes a caregiver or how both parent and child are transformed when the traditional role of provider is reversed. These participants remain anchored by profound and loving bonds amidst financial, logistical, and emotional obstacles.
Matter of Mind: My Alzheimer’s premieres on Independent Lens on Monday, May 5 at 10 PM on PBS NC, online and on the free PBS App.
Alzheimer's Association North Carolina Blog 