Dementia Demystified by Tim England.
Begin your journey to De-mystify and De-stigmatise dementia in your community and become a fellow advocate for people living with dementia and their families to live well. Dementia Demystified is hosted and created by Tim England who is a Dementia Champion and a leading voice on dementia in Australia. Being a dementia consultant and educator who De-mystifies and De-stigmatises dementia Tim advocate for people living with dementia and their families to live well. Dementia is an insidious condition and it tenacles infiltrate all levels of societies, and dementia is a challenging topic to discuss. Fear and stigma are associated with de...
Why do people with Dementia experience issues with mirrors.
As humans you and I have spent many hours preening ourselves in mirrors. Mirrors are essential for personal grooming, such as checking appearance, applying makeup, or shaving, and for safety purposes, like rear-view mirrors in vehicles or security mirrors in buildings. Mirrors also enable us to shift perspective, helping us to understand how we are perceived by others and supporting our emotional and social awareness.
Mirrors also help with our development of a sense of self. Children typically recognise themselves in mirrors around 20 months of age, which is a key milestone in their cognitive development.
...
Issues with Eating and Drinking and Dementia.
You and I generally take eating and drinking for granted. We understand when we are hungry and or thirsty we know what to do and how to do it. However, when Dementia is involved, there are often many changes here.
You might notice interesting changes in the way your loved one with dementia experience food, eating and drinking. This is due, in the main part, to the cognitive, sensory, behavioural and physical changes linked to their dementia.
These changes often lead to weight loss, dehydration, and malnutrition. However, equally these changes can result in overeating and...
Why do falls occur with dementia?
As we age many of us worry about experiencing a fall, because a fall can significantly impact our confidence and independence.
When you include your loved one with dementia, this concern often grows considerably and for very good reason. Generally, the risk of falls does increase as the dementia progresses and often begin to occur in the middle to late stages of dementia. But this timing can vary greatly by the type of dementia, with some forms of dementia linked to early falls.
So, what does causes falls in your loved one with dementia, and wh...
7 things not to say to someone with dementia.
At some stage communication will begin to change for your loved one with dementia. Many conversations with them will at some time feel repetitive, confusing, or emotionally charged.
As a caregiver you will instinctively try to remind, correct, or even try to reorientate your loved one. While these responses come from a place of care and love, they often can increase frustration or distress, for both of you.
Dementia will change how the brain of your loved one processes information, stores memories, and understands the world around them. Because of this, the way in which...
Is the term Reversable Dementia correct? Yes or No.
This episode will be a little controversial but it’s a topic that require discussion. Over recent years the term reversable dementia has crept into some medical language. This is occurring mainly in the United States and Canada, and it appears that doctors outside of Australia like to use this term.
And if you google the words ‘can Dementia, be reversed ?’ you will see a myriad of webpages, blogs, opinion pieces, videos, unsupported news articles, etc, that discuss reservable dementia, with many claims that promote, and advertises unsupported health practices and misinformation on dementia related matters.
However...
False beliefs and delusions in dementia.
Your loved one with dementia will often experience false beliefs and delusions which they will perceive and truly believe things that are clearly not true, and these beliefs will feel very, very real for them. These delusions and false beliefs will occur at any stage of dementia; however, these are more common as the dementia condition progresses.
They often revolve around the belief that someone is trying to hurt them and/or someone is stealing from them.
But what are false beliefs and delusions? And what can you do to support your loved one.
We...
Why hospitals are bad for people with dementia.
Given the choice most people do not wish to spend time as a hospital patient, but sometimes it happens. Overall, hospitals are unpleasant places to be. There are sick people everywhere, it’s noisy, it’s busy, there are strange sounds and smells. Indeed, the staff are focused, caring and professional, but given the choice you do not wish to be a patient there for very long.
Now think about your loved one with dementia. Hospitals are often very harmful for them. The Research is very strong on this. The loud, noisy, confusing and unfamiliar environment often prod...
Why Is Young Onset Dementia Growing globally
Way back in series 3 I introduced you to Young Onset Dementia via the episode called ‘What is Young Onset Dementia’. In that episode you would have discovered that Young Onset Dementia is any form of dementia that occurs in people under the age of 65 years. Many people are shocked to know that people in their 20’s, 30’s, 40’s and 50’s do develop dementia, and it’s far more common than your community understands. You may wish to relisten to that episode.
The cases of Young Onset Dementia are increasing , and today you and I will explore a range of socia...
Aphasia and Dementia – when words get lost.
Welcome to series 8 of Dementia Demystified.
Again, I like to throw in new words and phrases that are linked to dementia. In this episode you will hear and learn about Aphasia, what it is and how it impacts your loved one with dementia.
Aphasia and dementia are two distinct conditions; however, they often intersect with each other and can significantly impact quality of life. Understanding possible signs and available treatment options is crucial for early intervention and ongoing care.
While there is currently no cure for aphasia or dementia, there are several strategies t...
Apraxia and Dementia: Signs and Treatments.
Many know that I like to throw in new words and phrases that are linked to dementia. In this episode you will hear and learn about Apraxia, what it is and how it impacts your loved one with dementia.
Apraxia and dementia are two distinct conditions; however, they often intersect with each other and can significantly impact quality of life. Understanding possible signs and available treatment options is crucial for early intervention and ongoing care.
While there is currently no cure for apraxia or dementia, there are several strategies that can help manage symptoms of b...
False Claims About Dementia Treatments.
For those who have listen to other episodes hopefully you understand that dementia is a complex group of conditions that affect thinking, memory, and behaviour, and that there is over a hundred different diseases that will cause a dementia condition, and that dementia is not a normal part of ageing.
As awareness of dementia continues to grow, unfortunately so too has the spread of misinformation grown, including potential treatments and cures. This is concerning as it is very important to recognise and address many of the false claims to ensure your loved one living with dementia and y...
Why Young Onset Dementia is Considered an Aggressive Form of Dementia.
Young Onset Dementia is any form of dementia that occurs in people under the age of 65 years, and indeed people in their 30’s, 40’s and 50’s do develop dementia, and it’s far more common than your community understands. People with Young Onset Dementia have different experiences and often different symptoms to older people with dementia and the impact on their lives is also significantly different. Furthermore, due to some specific issues this form of dementia is often described as a more aggressive form of dementia.
So today you will discover some of the reasons behind this portraya...
12 Early Warning Signs of Dementia that are often missed.
Many do not know that early signs of dementia that could be developing in your brain, many, many years before any memory problems are noticed. According to solid research and neurologists reports, there are12 signs that may indicate physical brain changes, and neurologists take sign number 9 very seriously indeed.
It very important to understand that any of these 12 signs can appear years or even decades before a dementia diagnosis are made and these small signs can begin to appear when a person is in their 20’s, 30’s, 40’s and 50’s. Remember dementia is not a normal part of ageing...
Problems with Aged Care Facilities and Dementia Care.
As the Australian population ages, the need for effective dementia care within aged care sector has been recognised as an urgent challenge. However, several issues continue to persist, which impact the quality of life and wellbeing of your loved one living with dementia.
Indeed, there are several core difficulties facing aged care facilities to provide suitable dementia care. These need to be identified and discussed pragmatically so that you and your family can advocate strongly for your loved on with dementia to get the correct support.
So, what are some of the core problems and p...
What is Cognitive Testing and Why is it Important with Dementia?
As a regular listener to Dementia Demystified you have heard me mentioned Cognitive testing and its relationship with dementia. But what in fact is cognitive testing. What role does it play for your loved one living with dementia.
Well you will review the vital role cognitive testing plays in dementia. As with everything in life there are benefits and limitations, and it’s the same with any cognitive testing. Listen to this episode to discover more.
About me
My name is Tim England and I’m the host and creator of the pod...
Why Families Need to Fight for Good Dementia Care.
In a previous episode in this series, it has been discussed that dementia is recognised by the Australian government as a disability, thereby those with dementia have access to the support, legal protections, and the same human rights as everyone else. This is similar in other countries.
However, many families find themselves in the position of having to actively fight for good dementia care for their loved ones. This is also similar in other countries.
But why is this the case?
Well today you and I will review why sometimes families need to f...
The link between Down Syndrome and Dementia.
50 years ago, if you had a loved one with Down Syndrome, they life expectancy was short. However, today it is very possible that a loved one with Down syndrome can expect to live into their 60s and 70s due to improvements in healthcare, early intervention, and community support.
This is great news, however there is a caveat.
This increase in life expectancy comes with a significant risk of developing dementia, and this is the topic of this episode. Research estimates that 50% or more of adults with Down syndrome will develop dementia as they age, but e...
Why Family Dementia Caregivers Decline Help.
It’s true that many family members who care for loved ones living with dementia often face immense challenges which can be emotional, physical, and financial. However, despite the offers of help and the availability of support services, many caregivers simply decline assistance. I’ve encountered this decline many times over the years.
Being able to understand the possible reasons behind this decision is vital for professionals, support organisations, and family friends as they try to seek effective ways to support caregivers.
So today we will discuss why some Family Dementia Caregivers Decline Help
A...
Community Fear of Dementia and how to fix it.
Here are two questions for you. “Is Dementia a recognised disability?” and “Why do people still fear and openly avoid other people who have dementia”?
Well, the first answer is easy… Yes, dementia is classified as a disability in Australia and it’s the same in most other countries. Just like other disabilities, such as, hearing, vision, physical impairments, respiratory disorders, being bipolar and/or living with PTSD, etc,,,, dementia is recognised by the Australian government as a disability, thereby those with dementia have access to the support, legal protections, and the same human rights as you and I.
<...The impact of Co-morbidities and Polypharmacy in Dementia.
Rarely is dementia alone… As most cases of dementia occur in those over 65years of age, many people living with dementia also have one of more additional chronic health conditions.
Therefore, your loved one with dementia could also live with other chronic health conditions or co-morbidities. Co-morbidities are a very important factor in dementia and understanding the interplay between dementia and co-morbidities is essential for providing effective, person-centred care.
About me
My name is Tim England and I’m the host and creator of the podcasts Dementia Demystified. I’m also a Demen...
Neuroplasticity and Dementia.
What Is Neuroplasticity?
Neuroplasticity, which is also known as brain plasticity, is the process by which your brain changes in response to learning, experiences, or injury. This can involve strengthening existing pathways, forming new connections, or even shifting functions from one brain region to another. Neuroplasticity is most noticeable during your childhood but continues throughout your adulthood, although at a slower rate.
Discover and explore it’s interactions with dementia, and discover some hope for interventions and improved quality of life for people living with dementia.
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Protective Role of Cognitive Reserve in Dementia.
It’s very interesting that some people appear to age with their minds intact while others experience a dramatic slowdown as they age. The brain appears to have a very powerful force within it and has a lot of redundancy built-in – this is known as cognitive reserve.
It’s very possible that a continued lifetime of education seems to have a protective effect on the brain and aging. It’s possible that education contributes to cognitive reserve.
But what is cognitive reserve, and how can you use it to protect your brain.
Well that the...
Media Reporting and Dementia.
The way in which the media reports on dementia is crucial. Both globally and within Australia the media can help shape the public’s perception of dementia. The media does guide community attitudes; it can influence government policy and impact the lived experience of your loved one with dementia.
While media often provides much-needed information, support, and encouragement, there are concerns regarding the frequency of negative media stories and how this impacts dementia awareness and support in Australia and more broadly.
Today we will review how the media coverages dementia.
About me<...
Lack of Insight and Dementia.
If you have a loved one living with dementia you have probably experienced a lack of insight by your loved one. The lack of insight in dementia is very common and refers to the inability of your loved ones to recognise their cognitive impairments and the reality of their condition, and this often will lead to denial, family stress and challenges in care.
Today we will discuss this lack of insight and offer some suggestions that may assist.
About me
My name is Tim England and I’m the host and cr...
The quality of online Health Information and Dementia.
Where do you get your dementia information? Google, Facebook, or social media? Internet articles often use eye-catching and often misleading headlines to grab your attention. This is called clickbait and this phenomenon also infiltrates some healthcare articles.
Unfortunately, a lot of internet-based material is misleading, even dangerous; and that’s why it is crucial to examine the quality of health information that is online, particularly on social media because it may be inaccurate – or worse.
In this episode you will discover what to ask yourself when you read online health information.
About me
Theory of Mind and Dementia.
You probably never heard the phrase ‘Theory of Mind’, but Theory of mind is a foundational skill for navigating social situations.
You have it, people around you have it, and your loved one with dementia also has it, but unfortunately their Theory of Mind will become compromised and deteriorates over time, and this has a significant impact on them and those involved with their care and support.
But what the hell is Theory of Mind and how is it impacted by dementia.
Well today you and I will discuss Theory of Mind and Deme...
Dementia Age Groups.
Dementia can develop anytime across your lifespan. Yes, that’s correct.
While it is true that dementia is more common in older adults, and that ageing is the major risk factor of developing dementia, dementia is not a normal part of ageing, and people can develop dementia at different stages of life.
By understanding the age groups most affected by dementia this can help with early detection, targeted support, and better planning for care and services.
So today we will discuss the four main age groups where dementia develops.
About m<...
Reconsidering Parkinson's Disease as a Dementia.
Traditionally Parkinson's disease has been primarily considered as a movement disorder, with hallmark symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and a slowness in movement, (called bradykinesia).
However, in recent years, especially after the tragic death of the actor / comedian Robin Williams. the medical community has reconsidered Parkinson's disease as a form of dementia, reflecting new understandings about its impact on cognitive function
Today we will discuss why Parkinson’s disease is being reconsidered as a form of dementia.
About me
My name is Tim England and I’m the host and c...
Sundowning and Restlessness with Dementia.
It is common for your loved one with dementia to become restless in the late afternoon or early evening.
This is sometimes called “sundowning”. Other names are “restlessness” and /or “Brain Fatigue ”
Regardless of which term is used, it refers to a state of confusion and behavioural change in the afternoon / evening which may include increased anxiety, agitation, hallucinations, and pacing. Sundowning is common in the middle to late stages of dementia, although it can occur at any stage.
Today we will discuss what sundowning is and possible strategies to manage it.
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Why doctors may not discuss dementia with Clients.
Early discussion and diagnosis can help individuals and their families plan, access support, and make informed decisions both medical and non-medical. However, it's not uncommon for doctors to hesitate or avoid discussing dementia with their clients. Understanding the reasons behind this reluctance and exploring ways to overcome these barriers can lead to better outcomes for people with dementia and their families.
So today we are going to briefly discuss a number of these reasons why this occurs and what can be done to address them
About me
My name is Tim...
The Role of Exercise Physiologists in Dementia Care.
While dementia is primarily neurological, evidence increasingly shows that physical activity can play a pivotal role in managing symptoms and improving quality of life for your loved one with dementia. This is where exercise physiologists come into the picture, bridging the gap between physical health and cognitive well-being.
They specialise in designing and implementing exercise programs tailored to individual needs, particularly for those with chronic conditions or physical limitations. But who are they, what do they do and more importantly how they are vital in dementia care.
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The Role of Speech Therapy in Dementia Care.
Speech Therapy and Speech Therapists, or Speech Pathologists as they are sometimes known as, enhance communication and Quality of Life of your loved one with dementia.
Speech Therapists play a vital function in supporting your loved one with dementia. The primary aim of speech therapy is not to reverse the condition—as you know dementia is a progressive condition and dementia cannot be reversed - but speech therapy can help your loved one with dementia to maintain their current abilities for as long as possible, they help find alternative ways to communicate, and they address many other dif...
The Role of Physiotherapy in Dementia Care.
Continuing our discussions of the role of Ologists and specialists in Dementia Care, let’s look at physiotherapy and physiotherapists.
Physiotherapy is a healthcare discipline that focuses on enhancing physical function and mobility through exercise, manual therapy, and education. For your loved one with dementia, physical therapy is not merely about rehabilitation—it is about promoting their independence, reducing the risk of injury, and improving their overall quality of life.
Listen to learn more.
About me
My name is Tim England and I’m the host and creator of the podca...
Occupational Therapists and their role in dementia Care.
Occupational therapists, or OT’s as they are known are a group of expert "ologists" and specialises that play a vital role in ensuring comprehensive care and support for your loved one with dementia. But what are Occupational therapists. Listen to what these professionals are, and how they can help you and your loved one with dementia.
About me
My name is Tim England and I’m the host and creator of the podcasts Dementia Demystified. I’m also a Dementia Champion and a leading voice on dementia in Australia and I have been ac...
The Role of Ologists in Dementia Care.
Dementia is a complex condition that impairs a person’s memory, their cognition, and their daily functioning. To help address these many challenges, the expertise of "ologists" plays a vital role in ensuring comprehensive care and support for your loved one with dementia. But what are Ologists.??
Today you will discover who and what Ologists are, and how they can help you and your loved one with dementia.
About me
My name is Tim England and I’m the host and creator of the podcasts Dementia Demystified. I’m also a Dementia...
Understanding Lewy Body Dementia’s
Today this is a quick review to understand what are Lewy Body Dementia’s.
In Australia a lesser-known form dementia is called Lewy Body Dementia’s. Lewy Body Dementia’s is the 4th most common form of dementia in Australia.
Lewy Body Dementia’s are very common dementia’s, however very few people have heard about it. Lewy Body Dementia’s is an umbrella term for a spectrum of dementias.
The illnesses caused by this disease are called, Dementia with Lewy Bodies, or Parkinson disease dementia, and both fall under the same umbrella term of Lewy...
Understanding Frontotemporal Dementias.
Today this is a quick review to understand what Frontotemporal Dementias are .In Australia a lesser-known form of dementia is called Frontotemporal Dementia’s.
Frontotemporal Dementia’s is the 3rd most common form of dementia in Australia and Frontotemporal Dementia’s is responsible for about 10% of all dementia cases, but that percentage can vary greatly from region to region.
The cause of Frontotemporal Dementia is not fully understood, but several factors have been identified. These include loss of brain tissue, the buildup of certain proteins in the brain, genetic mutations, and possible links to Traumatic Brain...
Understanding Vascular Dementia.
Today this is a quick review to understand what is Vascular Dementia.
Vascular Dementia is very different to Alzheimer's disease. Vascular Dementia is the 2nd most common form of dementia in Australia and Vascular dementia is responsible for between 10 – 20% of all dementia cases, but that percentage can vary greatly from region to region.
Vascular dementia, as the name suggests, involves the vascular system or the blood flow system in your body.
Part of the human vascular system includes blood supply to your brain. For the brain to function well, it needs a constant su...
Understanding Alzheimer's disease.
Today this is a quick review to understand what is Alzheimer's disease.
The most common cause of dementia is Alzheimer's disease and Alzheimer's Disease is responsible for between 60 – 70% of all dementia cases, but that percentage can vary greatly from region to region.
For reasons that we don't fully understand Alzheimer's disease tends to impact an area of the brain called the hippocampus.
The hippocampus is involved with short-term memory, and it's located on either side the brain near the ears.
However, as time goes on the Alzheimer's disease does spread to oth...
What are some barriers to Therapy in Dementia Care.
It is well understood from research that therapies, such as Occupational Therapy, music and physical therapy, is a critical component of dementia care. Targeted therapy can improve the quality of life for your loved one with dementia and help manage dementia symptoms. However, there are numerous barriers that hinder the access and effectiveness of such vital therapies.
These challenges range from societal stigma, a lack of awareness within the medical and non-medical community, to systemic issues within healthcare systems.
Today we will look at some of the barriers to accessing suitable therapy in dementia care.
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