In this enlightening episode, we explore one of the most powerful and relatable ways to understand what happens in the brain of a person living with dementia — The Light Switch Analogy.

Lisa explains how the brain’s “short-term memory switch” begins to flicker as Alzheimer’s or related dementias progress, causing confusion, disorientation, and unpredictable behaviors. Through this vivid analogy, she helps care partners and families visualize how and why memory loss affects perception, judgment, and emotions.

Listeners will learn:

• How dementia impacts the ability to process information and make sense of surroundings.
• Why people living with dementia may seem to “live in the past.”
• What happens when the “short-term memory switch” turns off — and how to respond compassionately.
• The importance of joining their reality rather than forcing them back into ours.
• How reminiscence therapy and a person-centered approach can reduce fear and confusion.
• Practical ways to identify triggers and manage unexpected behaviors calmly and effectively.

Lisa also shares how understanding the mechanics of memory loss empowers care partners to approach daily challenges with patience, empathy, and awareness — turning confusion into connection and frustration into understanding.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to see dementia through a clearer lens and learn how to create harmony and dignity in care.

Sundowning is a pattern of late-day confusion and changed behavior that can intensify anxiety, pacing, wandering, and agitation for a person living with dementia. In this episode, we unpack what sundowning looks like, why it happens, and practical ways care partners can reduce stress and keep evenings calmer. We also share “The Sundowning Story” of Jack, whose late-day distress eased after the right support and environment were in place.

What You’ll Learn:

• What sundowning is and how it differs from general restlessness
• Common signs: disorientation, suspiciousness, exit-seeking/elopement, and abrupt mood shifts
• Frequent triggers: fatigue, pain, overstimulating environments, complex instructions, being rushed, perceived threats, and more
• Why intent matters: behaviors are signals of unmet needs, not “being difficult”
• Practical de-escalation strategies for smoother late afternoons and evenings

Key Takeaways & Tips:

• Lower stimulation after lunch: dim bright lights, reduce background noise and clutter.
• Keep routines predictable: consistent meal times, toileting, and a calming “wind-down” block (music, hand massage, familiar TV show).
• Offer simple choices: one-step requests; avoid rapid-fire questions.
• Validate and redirect: acknowledge feelings first, then gently guide (“Let’s sit together and look at your photo album while we wait.”).
• Address comfort basics: check for hunger, thirst, pain, temperature, and footwear.
• Plan safe movement: short walks or light tasks before dusk to channel restlessness.
• Prepare for elopement risk: door chimes, ID bracelets, current photos, and a neighbors-aware plan.

Story Spotlight: Jack’s 5 p.m. Calls:

Jack called his son daily to “find the house.” With compassionate placement in a memory-care setting and meaningful evening purpose (sweeping the patio at 5 p.m.), his distress eased and dignity returned. The right support can transform late-day turmoil into calmer connection.

Resources Mentioned:

• Evening routine checklist (create your own from today’s tips)
• Local memory-care consultation (to explore environments that match current needs)

Call To Action:

If evenings are tough, pick two tips above and try them this week. Share what worked (and what didn’t) so we can problem-solve together on a future episode.

Disclaimer - This episode is informational and not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

About the Host:

Author Lisa Skinner is a behavioral specialist with expertise in Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia. In her 30+year career working with family members and caregivers, Lisa has taught them how to successfully navigate the many challenges that accompany this heartbreaking disease. Lisa is both a Certified Dementia Practitioner and is also a certified dementia care trainer through the Alzheimer’s Association. She also holds a degree in Human Behavior.

Her latest book, “Truth, Lies & Alzheimer’s – Its Secret Faces” continues Lisa’s quest of working with dementia-related illnesses and teaching families and caregivers how to better understand the daunting challenges of brain disease. Her #1 Best-seller book “Not All Who Wander Need Be Lost,” was written at their urging. As someone who has had eight family members diagnosed with dementia, Lisa Skinner has found her calling in helping others through the struggle so they can have a better-quality relationship with their loved ones through education and through her workshops on counter-intuitive solutions and tools to help people

In this important episode, host Lisa Skinner explores a deeply concerning issue that affects millions of older adults worldwide — elder abuse. With compassion and clarity, Lisa explains the many forms this abuse can take, how to recognize the warning signs, and what steps can be taken to prevent or report it.

Every person, regardless of age, deserves to live free from harm, neglect, and exploitation. Yet, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately one in ten people over age 60 experience some form of abuse each year. This episode sheds light on the silent suffering many elders face — and provides listeners with the tools to recognize, respond, and advocate for those who may be at risk.

Listeners will learn:

• The different forms of elder abuse — physical, emotional, financial, sexual, neglect, and self-neglect.
• Who is most at risk, including individuals living with dementia, those dependent on caregivers, and socially isolated adults.
• The warning signs that may indicate abuse is occurring.
• Barriers to reporting and why so many cases go unreported.
• Practical steps to take if you suspect elder abuse — from ensuring immediate safety to reporting and seeking support.
• Prevention strategies to protect loved ones, including caregiver support, open communication, financial safeguards, and community connection.

Lisa also debunks common myths surrounding elder abuse and discusses the legal and ethical considerations for mandated reporters and caregivers. This episode serves as both an educational guide and a compassionate call to action — reminding listeners that vigilance, empathy, and awareness can make all the difference in keeping our elders safe.

Resources Mentioned:

• National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA): https://ncea.acl.gov
• Adult Protective Services (APS) Directory by State: https://ncea.acl.gov/Resources/State.aspx
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: https://www.thehotline.org/ — for confidential support
• Truth, Lies, and Alzheimer’s Book by Lisa Skinner: https://www.truthliesalzheimers.com

About the Host:

Author Lisa Skinner is a behavioral specialist with expertise in Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia. In her 30+year career working with family members and caregivers, Lisa has taught them how to successfully navigate the many challenges that accompany this heartbreaking disease. Lisa is both a Certified Dementia Practitioner and is also a certified dementia care trainer through the Alzheimer’s Association. She also holds a degree in Human Behavior.

Her latest book, “Truth, Lies & Alzheimer’s – Its Secret Faces” continues Lisa’s quest of working with dementia-related illnesses and teaching families and caregivers how to better understand the daunting challenges of brain disease. Her #1 Best-seller book “Not All Who Wander Need Be Lost,” was written at their urging. As someone who has had eight family members diagnosed with dementia, Lisa Skinner has found her calling in helping others through the struggle so they can have a better-quality relationship with their loved ones through education and through her workshops on counter-intuitive solutions and tools to help people effectively manage the symptoms of brain disease. Lisa Skinner has appeared on many national and regional media broadcasts. Lisa helps explain behaviors caused by dementia, encourages those who feel burdened, and gives practical advice for how to...