Guy Benson on Caregiving, Stigma, and Hope After an Alzheimer’s Diagnosis
Alzheimer’s runs deep in Guy Benson’s family. Both of his maternal grandparents lived with the disease, and his mother received her diagnosis in her mid-60s.
For years, the Fox News Radio host kept her story off the air. He didn’t want to upset her or appear to exploit her situation. Then his mom gave him her blessing, and his audience responded in ways he never expected.
In this episode, Guy shares the early signs his family noticed, why so many families still keep a loved one’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis private, and how his mom continues to find joy in the middle stage of the disease.
In This Episode:
Your Host: Emily Kaplan
Our Guest: Guy Benson, host of The Guy Benson Show on Fox News Radio, Townhall political editor, Fox News contributor, and son of a mother living with Alzheimer’s
This Episode Explores:
- What early signs led to Guy’s mother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis?
- Why do so many families keep Alzheimer’s private?
- Why does Alzheimer’s carry a different stigma than cancer?
- What does daily life look like in the middle stage of Alzheimer’s?
- Which lifestyle changes has Guy’s family made for his mom?
Early Signs of Alzheimer’s That Families Miss
Guy’s mom recognized her own symptoms early and, at first, quietly hid them. Over time, the signs became harder to disguise: lost words, misplaced items, and everyday tasks she’d easily managed her entire life.
His father, her primary caregiver, spotted the changes first. But surrounded by people she loves, Guy’s mom often rose to the occasion, masking how far the disease had progressed, at least until the celebration ended.
With the knowledge of their family’s history, Guy’s parents chose not to wait any longer. They saw a specialist and confirmed the diagnosis.
Why the Stigma of Alzheimer’s Keeps Families Quiet
Once Guy’s mom encouraged him to use his platform to speak about Alzheimer’s, he invited Dr. Brent Beasley onto his radio show and posted a selfie of the two of them on social media. Thousands of replies poured in. Messages arrived from childhood friends, longtime listeners, and even U.S. senators.
The response helped his mom feel seen. It also revealed how many families live with Alzheimer’s behind closed doors.
Guy believes Alzheimer’s carries a heavier stigma than cancer because it feels like “a slow, cruel robbery over time,” one that takes away “a lot of what makes you you.”
Finding Joy in the Middle Stage of Alzheimer’s
Today, Guy’s mom remains a warm, loving presence. Her grandchildren light up her days, and the family has learned that Alzheimer’s rarely follows a straight downhill path. Long plateaus give everyone time to settle into a new sense of normal.
The family has also made practical changes. His mom now follows a Mediterranean diet and exercises with family, adding strength training to her long walks. A local support group helps the whole family navigate each new stage.
“It’s weird to have a favorite part of this terrible journey,” Guy says, “but there are favorite parts of it.”
Watch the episode to hear why Guy calls this moment in Alzheimer’s research “exciting and empowering” and why he believes people diagnosed today arrive “right on time” for new breakthroughs.
Common Questions About Alzheimer’s Research, Testing, and Prevention
What are early signs of Alzheimer’s that families might miss?
Early signs include trouble finding words, misplacing items, and difficulty with familiar tasks. Many people notice their own symptoms and try to hide them. Loved ones who see them only on special occasions may miss the changes, since social settings can bring out a person’s best.
Is Alzheimer’s hereditary?
Family history raises the risk of Alzheimer’s, especially when a parent or sibling has the disease. Genes alone rarely determine the outcome, though. Learn more in our conversation with Angela Calman.
Does Alzheimer’s get worse every day?
Not usually. Alzheimer’s progresses through early, middle, and late stages, and the pace varies from person to person. Many people experience long plateaus. The middle stage often lasts the longest, sometimes for many years.
How can you talk to a loved one about memory changes?
Start with patience and a private, honest conversation. Many families find it easier to frame a doctor’s visit as a routine checkup or baseline test. Caregiver Louise Fisher shares more ideas for approaching a reluctant loved one.
Can diet and exercise help someone living with Alzheimer’s?
Research links a Mediterranean-style diet and regular physical activity to better brain health. Walking, strength training, and time with others all count. Hear how marathon runner Ralph Carmona pairs exercise with his treatment, and talk with a doctor before starting a new routine.