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The Long Goodbye with Graeme Sutherland

Graeme Sutherland

The Long Goodbye is a podcast for anyone whose life has been touched by Alzheimer's disease or dementia.

Hosted by Graeme Sutherland, the series brings together personal stories, expert insight and honest conversations with families, carers, advocates and healthcare professionals who understand the realities of living with dementia.

Inspired by Graeme's own family's journey following his mum's Alzheimer's diagnosis at just 59 years old, the podcast explores the challenges, emotions and questions that so many families face every day.

Through powerful interviews and shared experiences, listeners can expect practical advice, emotional support and reassurance that they are not alone. From navigating a new diagnosis and caring for a loved one, to celebrating moments of connection and resilience, The Long Goodbye shines a light on the people behind the diagnosis and the communities supporting them.

Whether you're living with dementia, caring for someone who is, working in healthcare, or simply looking to better understand the condition, this podcast offers compassion, guidance and hope through every stage of the journey.

Because while dementia can feel isolating, no family should have to face it alone.

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  • 3 episodes
  • Avg 35 min
  • English

Episodes 3

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  • #2
    Saturday · 54 min

    Breaking the Stigma: How Alzheimer Scotland Supports Families

    In this episode of The Long Goodbye, Graeme sits down with Jim Pearson, Deputy Chief Executive of Alzheimer Scotland, to explore the vital support available for people living with dementia and the families who care for them. Drawing from both professional expertise and personal experience, this honest conversation tackles the challenges of getting a diagnosis, the importance of post-diagnostic support, and why no one should have to navigate dementia alone. You'll hear about Alzheimer Scotland's 24/7 helpline, dementia advisors, support groups, community activities, brain health initiatives, and the charity's ongoing fight for better dementia care across Scotland. The discussion also highlights the crucial role of unpaid carers, the importance of Power of Attorney, and the need to break down the stigma surrounding dementia. Key Highlights What Alzheimer Scotland does and how it supports families across Scotland Why getting a dementia diagnosis can be difficult, especially for younger people The importance of post-diagnostic support and why many families still miss out Practical advice on Power of Attorney and future planning How dementia cafés, support groups and activities help people stay connected The realities faced by unpaid carers and families Dementia prevention, brain health and current research developments How to access support, advice and emergency help when you need it most This episode discusses dementia, diagnosis, caring responsibilities, and the emotional impact these experiences can have on individuals and families. If anything raised in this conversation affects you, support is available. Alzheimer Scotland Dementia Helpline (24 hours): 0808 808 3000 Website: www.alzscot.org Email: helpline@alzscot.org The Alzheimer Scotland Dementia Helpline provides confidential information, emotional support, and practical advice for anyone affected by dementia, including family members, carers, friends, and people living with a diagnosis.

  • #1
    September 19 · 50 min

    Two Sides of the Same Story

    This is a deeply personal first episode that sets the foundation for the entire podcast. It's honest, emotional, funny, and gives listeners a real-world insight into what it's actually like to care for a parent with young-onset dementia. What happens when dementia arrives decades earlier than expected and completely changes the course of your family's life? In the debut episode of The Long Goodbye, host Graeme Sutherland and his twin sister Kirsten share the deeply personal story of their mum's young-onset dementia diagnosis and the 11-year journey that followed. From the early warning signs that were mistaken for depression after their father's death, to the long battle for a diagnosis, becoming carers in their early twenties, and eventually moving their mum into a care home, this episode offers an honest, unfiltered account of the realities of dementia. Alongside the heartbreak, Graeme and Kirsten reflect on the humour, resilience, and unexpected moments of joy that helped them navigate one of life's toughest challenges. This is a conversation about grief, love, family, and learning to say goodbye one small piece at a time. Key Highlights The early symptoms that were repeatedly misdiagnosed as depression. The challenges of obtaining a young-onset dementia diagnosis. How dementia changed their relationship with their mum. Becoming full-time carers in their twenties and balancing work, life, and caregiving. The emotional impact of watching a loved one gradually decline. Practical advice on power of attorney, care planning, and accessing support. Why there is no "textbook" way to care for someone with dementia. The importance of finding joy, humour, and meaningful moments throughout the journey. Honest discussions about guilt, burnout, resilience, and grief. The story behind Graeme's social media platform and advocacy work. If this episode raises any difficult emotions or concerns for you, please remember that support is available. Whether you're living with dementia, caring for a loved one, or coping with the impact of a diagnosis, you don't have to face it alone. For information, advice, and practical support, contact Alzheimer Scotland's Dementia Helpline on 0808 808 3000 or visit alzscot.org. If you're struggling with your mental wellbeing, support is also available through Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87 and Samaritans on 116 123, available 24 hours a day. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, and there are people ready to listen and support you

  • September 13 · 39 sec

    Trailer: The Long Goodbye with Graeme Sutherland

    Launching Sunday 20th September. The Long Goodbye is a podcast for anyone whose life has been touched by Alzheimer's disease or dementia. Hosted by Graeme Sutherland, the series brings together personal stories, expert insight and honest conversations with families, carers, advocates and healthcare professionals who understand the realities of living with dementia. Inspired by Graeme's own family's journey following his mum's Alzheimer's diagnosis at just 59 years old, the podcast explores the challenges, emotions and questions that so many families face every day.

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