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In this episode of Truth, Lies & Alzheimer’s, Lisa Skinner welcomes Dr. Christopher J. Johnson, PhD, Clinical Professor of Sociology in Dementia Studies at Texas State University.Dr. Johnson tal…

In this episode of T…

In this episode of Truth, Lies & Alzheimer’s, Lisa Skinner welcomes Dr. Christopher J. Johnson, PhD, Clinical Professor of Sociology in Dementia Studies at Texas State University.Dr. Johnson talks about his work in dementia care and shares insight into using “time Travel” based memories as part of a person-centered approach. Through life stories, familiar moments, meaningful objects, photos, music, and personal history, caregivers can create opportunities for connection, comfort, and dignity.This conversation reminds us that dementia care is not only about symptoms or behaviors. It i…

In Part 2, Lisa continues the conversation about Alzheimer’s disease, dementia diagnosis, and why the brain may be more complex than we once believed.This episode looks at amyloid plaques, tau tangl…

In Part 2, Lisa cont…

In Part 2, Lisa continues the conversation about Alzheimer’s disease, dementia diagnosis, and why the brain may be more complex than we once believed.This episode looks at amyloid plaques, tau tangles, inflammation, vascular Health, and other factors that may all play a role in Alzheimer’s disease. Lisa also explores an important question: Are plaques and tangles always the problem, or could they sometimes be part of the brain’s attempt to protect itself?Lisa also touches on Lewy body dementia and why it is often mistaken for Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, or even psychiat…

Lisa begins a thought-provoking two-part conversation inspired by the well-known Nun Study of Aging and Alzheimer’s Disease. This landmark research followed 678 Catholic nuns from the School Sisters…

Lisa begins a though…

Lisa begins a thought-provoking two-part conversation inspired by the well-known Nun Study of Aging and Alzheimer’s Disease. This landmark research followed 678 Catholic nuns from the School Sisters of Notre Dame and offered rare insight into aging, memory, brain health, and Alzheimer’s disease.In Part 1, Lisa explores why the findings of the Nun Study were so surprising then and remain important today. The study revealed that some individuals showed significant Alzheimer’s-related brain changes, such as plaques and tangles, yet did not display obvious dementia symptoms during life. This…

Sleep disturbances are one of the most exhausting and emotionally challenging aspects of dementia care. In this episode of Truth, Lies & Alzheimer’s, Lisa Skinner takes a compassionate and pract…

Sleep disturbances a…

Sleep disturbances are one of the most exhausting and emotionally challenging aspects of dementia care. In this episode of Truth, Lies & Alzheimer’s, Lisa Skinner takes a compassionate and practical look at why sleep becomes disrupted in dementia and what caregivers can do to create safer, calmer nights for everyone involved.Lisa explores the many ways dementia affects the brain’s natural sleep-wake cycle and explains how different types of dementia can present unique nighttime challenges. From sundowning and nighttime wandering to vivid dreams, daytime sleepiness, and fragmented sleep…

In this powerful and heartfelt episode, Lisa welcomes Andrew Karesa for a meaningful conversation about his personal journey into the world of dementia care.Andrew shares how his grandmother’s Alzhe…

In this powerful and…

In this powerful and heartfelt episode, Lisa welcomes Andrew Karesa for a meaningful conversation about his personal journey into the world of dementia care.Andrew shares how his grandmother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis deeply impacted his family and ultimately shaped the path he is on today. What began as a personal experience quickly turned into a greater purpose—one that led him to create blueBell Village, a solution designed to restore personhood and independence for those living with dementia.Throughout the episode, Andrew speaks to the importance of seeing the individual beyond the diag…

In this important and eye-opening episode of Truth, Lies & Alzheimer’s, Lisa Skinner takes a deeper look at one of the most misunderstood aspects of dementia care: changes in perception and how …

In this important an…

In this important and eye-opening episode of Truth, Lies & Alzheimer’s, Lisa Skinner takes a deeper look at one of the most misunderstood aspects of dementia care: changes in perception and how they impact daily life.Lisa explains how dementia can affect the brain’s ability to properly interpret information gathered through sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell. What may appear to others as confusion, stubbornness, or irrational behavior is often the result of the brain misinterpreting reality.Throughout the episode, viewers will learn about:The difference between misperceptions, mis…

In this episode, Lisa speaks with Neal Shah, founder of CareYaya, about a new approach to dementia care. Neal shares how his platform connects families with trained college students pursuing healthcar…

In this episode, Lis…

In this episode, Lisa speaks with Neal Shah, founder of CareYaya, about a new approach to dementia care. Neal shares how his platform connects families with trained college students pursuing healthcare careers—providing affordable, compassionate support while helping prepare the next generation of caregivers.They discuss the challenges families face, the importance of person-centered care, and how innovative models like CareYaya are creating meaningful change in the dementia care space.Have a look at our updated website - https://www.mindingdementiasummit.com/Connect with Neal ShahInstagram:…

Communication can become one of the biggest challenges in dementia care—but small changes can make a meaningful difference.In this episode, we explore practical strategies to improve connection and …

Communication can be…

Communication can become one of the biggest challenges in dementia care—but small changes can make a meaningful difference.In this episode, we explore practical strategies to improve connection and reduce frustration, including the powerful 90-second rule, which allows time for processing and response.You’ll learn how to navigate common challenges like word-finding difficulties, repetition, confusion with instructions, and emotional reactions. We also share simple techniques such as using clear language, breaking tasks into steps, and relying on nonverbal cues to support understanding.This…

Caring for a loved one with dementia can feel overwhelming, especially when challenges arise without warning. In this episode, we share real-life Caregiving scenarios along with simple, practical stra…

Caring for a loved o…

Caring for a loved one with dementia can feel overwhelming, especially when challenges arise without warning. In this episode, we share real-life caregiving scenarios along with simple, practical strategies to help you improve communication, increase safety, and feel more supported in your role.Key Takeaways:Recognize early warning signsImprove communication and reduce frustrationCreate safer daily routinesTake small steps to stay organized and preparedHave a look at our updated website - https://www.mindingdementiasummit.com/About the Host:Author Lisa Skinner is a behavioral specialist with e…

When is it time to stop driving—and how do you have that conversation?In this episode, we talk about the impact dementia has on driving, the warning signs to watch for, and how to approach this diff…

When is it time to s…

When is it time to stop driving—and how do you have that conversation?In this episode, we talk about the impact dementia has on driving, the warning signs to watch for, and how to approach this difficult transition with care and respect. Driving is deeply tied to independence, which makes this one of the most emotional conversations families face.You’ll learn how to balance safety with dignity, involve your loved one in the process, and create a plan that supports both their well-being and continued sense of autonomy.What You’ll LearnSigns that driving may no longer be safeHow dementia a…

In this episode, Lisa explores the most current research on dementia prevention and what it means for you or your loved ones.While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, studies suggest that up to 45% of…

In this episode, Lis…

In this episode, Lisa explores the most current research on dementia prevention and what it means for you or your loved ones.While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, studies suggest that up to 45% of dementia cases may be preventable by addressing key Lifestyle and health factors.Lisa breaks down the most important risk factors, why structure matters more than intention, and how small, consistent changes can support long-term brain health.You’ll also learn about new advancements in early detection, including blood biomarkers that are helping shift dementia care toward earlier, proactive int…

In this episode, we explore the latest breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s and dementia research and what they could mean for the future of care.From new medications and early detection tools to the role o…

In this episode, we …

In this episode, we explore the latest breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s and dementia research and what they could mean for the future of care.From new medications and early detection tools to the role of AI and emerging risk factors, advancements are creating new opportunities for earlier diagnosis and improved outcomes. We also discuss ongoing research into causes, prevention, and innovative treatment approaches.While there is still no cure, progress is being made—and with it comes hope for individuals, families, and caregivers navigating this journey.Have a look at our updated website - http…