Unmasking Alzheimer's: Myths, Risks & Caregiving Tips
Episode Overview
Join the reality of those with Alzheimer's rather than correcting them. Routine and familiarity help ease transitions into care facilities. Lifestyle choices can impact the risk of developing Alzheimer's. Understanding symptoms beyond memory loss is crucial. Social connection and acceptance play roles in managing dementia.
We must join their reality—there's nothing we can say to change their belief during a delusion.
In this episode of Brain Shaman, host Michael Waite sits down with Lisa Skinner, a behavioural expert and author, to unpack the complex world of Alzheimer's disease. Lisa shares her personal journey with Alzheimer's, starting with her grandmother's shocking delusions about birds and rats invading her home. This poignant story illustrates the challenges families face when dealing with dementia. Lisa offers practical advice for caregivers, emphasising the importance of joining the reality of those with Alzheimer's rather than correcting them.
The episode also tackles common myths about Alzheimer's, revealing it's more than just memory loss—it's a spectrum of symptoms affecting various brain functions. Lisa discusses risk factors for Alzheimer's, including lifestyle choices and medical conditions like hypertension and hearing loss. She highlights the significance of routine and familiarity for those living with dementia, explaining how a structured environment can ease transitions into care facilities.
Lisa's insights are not only informative but deeply compassionate, offering a toolkit for caregivers to navigate these challenging situations. Michael and Lisa explore the importance of social connection and acceptance in managing dementia symptoms, drawing parallels between mental illness and brain diseases. The conversation is both enlightening and heartfelt, providing listeners with valuable strategies to support loved ones affected by Alzheimer's.
So, if you're looking for practical caregiving tips or want to better understand Alzheimer's, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom. Whether you're caring for someone with dementia or simply curious about brain health, Lisa's expertise offers hope and clarity in the face of these daunting challenges.