What really happens as dementia and Alzheimer's disease progresses? In this Living to 100 Club episode, Dr. Joe sits down with Lisa Skinner, a nationally recognized and published expert on Alzheimer's disease and dementia. We shed light on the misunderstood realities of cognitive decline. Drawing from her acclaimed book, Lisa shares profound insights into how Alzheimer’s alters not just memory – but identity, behavior, and the fabric of family relationships.



Listeners will gain a deeper appreciation for a person-centered approach to understanding dementia and dementia care. Why does traditional reality orientation often fail? And what does it really means to support a loved one through confusion, fear, and loss of self. The conversation also explores promising ways to reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease - and how to live meaningfully even after a diagnosis.



Understanding Dementia: Caregiver Tips and Strategies



For ready-to-use activities and lesson plans, explore BLH Module 8: Understanding Depression, Dementia & Delirium. Learn more in Dr. Joe's Blog: Clearing the Fog: Understanding the 3 D's of Aging



If you’d like to dive deeper into this topic, take a look at my blog, Clearing the Fog: Understanding the 3 D’s of Aging. Here, I explain how dementia, depression, and delirium overlap yet differ and why recognizing each is critical for caregivers and senior-living professionals. For a ready-to-use resource, explore BLH Module 8: Understanding Depression, Dementia & Delirium. This module includes 60 cards of lesson plans, activities, discussion prompts, and inspirational stories. It is designed to educate staff and support families.



Key Topics Covered:




Why families often underestimate the full cognitive and personality impact of Alzheimer's



How the brain’s decline affects perception, memory, behavior, and relationships



A shift toward person-centered care: seeing the individual, not just the disease



Why forcing someone into our reality is unhelpful—and what reassurance really looks like



Lifestyle choices and behaviors that may reduce dementia risk



Strategies for creating a supportive environment for those living with dementia




Mini Bio



Lisa Paglia is a behavioral expert in the field of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. In her 20-year career as a community counselor and regional director of senior care facilities, she has helped thousands of families find the best care options for their loved ones. She holds an Administrator’s License through the California Department of Social Services. As a trainer, adviser and public speaker, Lisa has dedicated her career to teaching people the skills to effectively manage brain disease. Learn more at www.allseniorssafeandsound.com



For Our Listeners



Lisa's Website: www.allseniorssafeandsound.com



Explore BLH Module 8 on understanding dementia,