Many Faces of Alzheimer’s — Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) has launched a groundbreaking 12-part podcast series exploring dementia through a powerful mix of patient experiences and expert insight. Hosted by former CNN and RTÉ journalist Fionnuala Sweeney, the series features interviews with people living with memory difficulties alongside leading specialists from TUH’s Institute of Memory & Cognition. Inspired by her father’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis, Sweeney examines the challenges of dementia, emerging treatments, and how people can live well for longer. One standout episode features Breda Comiskey, a 69-year-old retired accountant from County Kildare diagnosed with early-onset dementia. A mother of five, Breda reflects on early signs of her condition, including hearing difficulties.
rofessor Seán Kennelly, Consultant Geriatrician and Director of the Institute of Memory & Cognition at TUH, explains that hearing issues can sometimes be linked to cognitive processing difficulties rather than physical hearing loss. Breda attends the Institute of Memory & Cognition at TUH and is participating in a clinical trial for new dementia treatments. She highlights the vital role of early diagnosis, specialist care, and family support, noting that intervention by TUH’s Memory Clinic team has significantly slowed the progression of her symp-toms. “People need to know it’s not the end of the road,” Breda says. “It’s a different stage, but there’s still so much you can do with your life.” She recalls how her sisters now notice a marked improvement in her confidence and independence during family holidays, crediting their ongoing support and her care team.
Professor Kennelly describes an exciting era in dementia research, with over 160 clinical trials underway globally, including studies involving TUH patients. “We’re hopeful that treatments targeting the proteins re-sponsible for Alzheimer’s will become available in Ireland in the coming years,” he says. He also stresses that lifestyle changes — staying active, social engagement, and lifelong learning — can reduce dementia risk by up to 45%. The series aims to challenge stigma and encourage earlier help-seeking. TUH CEO Barbara Keogh Dunne says the podcast reflects the hospital’s commitment to community education and brain health awareness. Produced by Catriona Oliphant of ChromeRadio, the podcast is available on the TUH YouTube channel and all major podcast platforms.