How to Reduce Your Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease and Improve Dementia Care

Guest: Lisa Skinner

Episode Overview

Alzheimer’s disease and dementia affect millions of families worldwide, yet many people still misunderstand the difference between the two. In this episode, dementia expert Lisa Skinner shares practical insights on recognizing early warning signs, understanding risk factors, avoiding common misconceptions, improving communication with loved ones living with dementia, and making lifestyle choices that may help reduce Alzheimer’s risk. Based on more than 30 years of experience, Lisa provides actionable guidance for caregivers, families, and anyone concerned about brain health.

Key Takeaways

• Dementia is an umbrella term describing symptoms, while Alzheimer’s disease is a specific brain disease.
• Early Alzheimer’s symptoms are often mistaken for normal age-related forgetfulness, delaying diagnosis.
• Person-centered dementia care is more effective than correcting or arguing with someone experiencing dementia.
• Modifiable risk factors such as cardiovascular health, hearing loss, diabetes, smoking, diet, and exercise can influence Alzheimer’s risk.
• A dementia diagnosis does not mean life is over; people can continue living meaningful and fulfilling lives for many years.

Listener Q&A

Q: What’s the difference between Alzheimer’s disease and dementia?

A: Alzheimer’s is a specific neurodegenerative brain disease. Dementia refers to the symptoms and behavioral changes caused by diseases affecting the brain.

Q: How can I tell normal aging apart from Alzheimer’s symptoms?

A: Occasional forgetfulness—like misplacing keys or forgetting why you entered a room—is common with aging. Persistent cognitive decline, confusion, and worsening memory issues should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Q: Can Alzheimer’s be misdiagnosed?

A: Yes. Certain conditions, including Lyme disease, can mimic dementia symptoms, making comprehensive medical evaluation important.

Q: What can I do today to lower my risk?

A: Focus on heart health, manage chronic conditions, exercise regularly, avoid smoking, limit alcohol, address hearing loss, and reduce consumption of ultra-processed foods.

What You’ll Learn From This Episode

• How dementia and Alzheimer’s disease differ.
• The most common myths surrounding Alzheimer’s.
• Why communication techniques can dramatically improve caregiving outcomes.
• The biggest modifiable risk factors linked to Alzheimer’s disease.
• Practical ways to support brain health as you age.

Connect with Lisa Skinner:

• Minding Dementia Website
• Dementia Awareness Speaker Website
• Facebook – Minding Dementia
• X (Twitter) – Lisa Skinner
• LinkedIn – Lisa Skinner
• YouTube – Lisa Skinner
• Instagram – Minding Dementia

Click here to claim your free gift: The Alzheimer’s Risk Reduction & Caregiver Communication Checklist