August 2, 2026

Music reaches people with dementia when almost nothing else can. Here’s how to build the playlist.

A reader named Julie asked how to reach her mom with music. The science is real: The brain’s music regions are among the last dementia touches. One playlist, built from the songs of her mom’s youth, can open a door for a few minutes at a time. Here’s exactly how to make one.

May 10, 2026

The free prayer app I use on my morning walks (plus 6 alternatives)

I take Bella and Abby out before sunrise, lace up my shoes and let the rosary play in my earbuds. 22 minutes later, my head’s clear, the coffee’s brewing and I haven’t touched Slack once.