Click here for Spanish Click here for French Video Transcript [Answer 1015] Welcome and thank you for joining me. Today, we're going to talk about palliative care and how it can help people who live with Dementia. Palliative care focuses on comfort, quality of life, and symptom relief. It is not only for the end of life. Palliative care can be given at any stage of Dementia and can be used alongside other medical treatments. What is palliative care? Palliative care looks at the whole person, not just the illness. It helps manage symptoms like pain, anxiety, shortness of breath, trouble sleeping, or agitation. It also supports emotional, social, and spiritual needs. A palliative care team may include doctors, nurses, social workers, and chaplains who work together to support both the person with Dementia and their family. How does palliative care help people living with Dementia? As Dementia progresses, it can become harder for a person to explain how they feel or what hurts. Palliative care providers are trained to notice signs of discomfort and respond with gentle care. They focus on keeping the person calm, safe, and as comfortable as possible. Palliative care also helps families. It offers guidance with difficult decisions, such as treatment choices and care planning. Families can ask questions, talk about goals, and receive support during stressful times. This can reduce worry and help families feel more confident and supported. When should palliative care begin? Palliative care can begin as soon as a Dementia diagnosis is made and continue throughout the illness. Early support often leads to better comfort, fewer hospital visits, and improved quality of life. Palliative care is about dignity, comfort, and honoring what matters most to the person. It helps people living with Dementia feel cared for, not just treated. On behalf of the Dementia Society of America®, thank you again for joining me today. Stay informed, stay healthy, and take care of yourself. Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

Deep inside almost every cell in your body are structures called chromosomes. Chromosomes are made of DNA, the genetic material that contains instructions for building and maintaining your body. At the ends of these chromosomes are special sections called telomeres. Telomeres may be tiny, but scientists are very interested in them. Research suggests that they are connected to aging and may also be linked to diseases that affect the brain, including some forms of Dementia. What Are Telomeres? A simple way to understand telomeres is to think about a shoelace. The plastic tips on a shoelace help keep it from fraying. Telomeres do something similar for chromosomes. They are repeating sections of DNA that help protect the ends of chromosomes from damage. Without this protection, chromosome ends could be damaged or even join with other chromosomes. That could cause problems when cells use or copy their DNA. Telomeres therefore help keep our genetic information stable and protected. Why Do Telomeres Get Shorter? Our bodies constantly replace many old or damaged cells. To make a new cell, an existing cell divides. Before it divides, it must copy its DNA. There is a small problem: the cell cannot perfectly copy the very ends of its chromosomes. As a result, telomeres usually become a little shorter each time a cell divides. Some cells use an enzyme called telomerase to rebuild parts of their telomeres. However, telomerase is not active enough in most normal body cells to prevent telomeres from becoming shorter over time. Eventually, a telomere may become so short that the cell can no longer divide normally. The cell may stop dividing, a condition called cellular senescence, or it may die. Telomeres and Aging As Dr. Michael Fossel has said: " If there were a single concept that is key to all of aging, it is the notion that everything in our organs, tissues, and cells is dynamically and actively in flux, rather than a set of organs, tissues, cells, and molecules that deteriorate statically and passively." Because telomeres tend to shorten over time as cells grow and divide, scientists have studied them as one sign of biological aging. Telomere shortening is now considered one of the important processes connected with aging. But telomeres are not simply a clock that tells us exactly how old someone is. People of the same age can have different telomere lengths. Genetics and environmental factors can affect them. Oxidative stress and inflammation may also damage telomeres. As more cells develop very short or damaged telomeres, tissues may have a harder time repairing themselves and functioning normally. Researchers are studying how this process might contribute to diseases that become more common with age. Could Telomeres Be Connected to Dementia? This question is especially interesting because age is a major factor in the development of Dementia. Some studies have found that people with Alzheimer's disease, the most common cause of Dementia, tend to have shorter telomeres in certain blood cells than people without the disease. A large analysis of earlier studies found significantly shorter telomeres among people with Alzheimer's disease. Other research has found associations between longer telomeres, greater brain volume, and better performance on tests of cognitive abilities. However, this does not prove that short telomeres cause Dementia. Scientists still do not fully understand the relationship. Short telomeres might contribute to harmful changes, or they might be a sign of other aging processes happening in the body. Studies have produced some conflicting results, and telomere length is not currently considered a reliable test for diagnosing Dementia. Telomeres give researchers another clue about what happens inside our cells as we grow older. By learning more about these tiny chromosome protectors, scientists may better understand healthy aging and why diseases such as Alzheimer's develop. Sources National Human Genome Research Institute. "Telomere.” Genetics Glossary, updated July 27, 2026. National Human Genome Research Institute. "Chromosomes Fact Sheet.” National Institute on Aging. "Section for Telomere Maintenance.” Chakravarti, D., LaBella, K. A., & DePinho, R. A. "Telomeres: History, Health, and Hallmarks of Aging.” Cell, 2021. Gampawar, P., Schmidt, R., & Schmidt, H. "Telomere Length and Brain Aging: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.” Ageing Research Reviews, 2022. Forero, D. A., et al. “Meta-analysis of Telomere Length in Alzheimer's Disease.” The Journals of Gerontology: Series A, 2016. Levstek, T., et al. “Telomere Attrition in Neurodegenerative Disorders.” Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience, 2020. Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

When Eating and Drinking Become Difficult In this episode of Dementia Unplugged™: Care Essentials, we explore the difficulties that persons living with Dementia have with eating and drinking. This episode is designed to help caregivers, care partners, family members, and loved ones better understand eating and drinking needs and provide appropriate support for a person living with Dementia. About Dementia Unplugged™: Care Essentials From getting dressed in the morning to preparing a meal, using the bathroom, shopping, or getting from place to place, daily routines involve many different physical and cognitive abilities. Dementia Unplugged: Care Essentials explores both Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) and how Dementia may gradually affect a person's ability to complete them. The series helps care partners better understand what they may be seeing, why it may be happening, and how to adjust their approach while continuing to support independence and dignity. Understanding How Needs Change Over Time Care needs are rarely the same throughout the Dementia journey. A person may initially need only a reminder or a little extra time. Later, they may benefit from visual cues, simplified choices, step-by-step guidance, environmental changes, or more hands-on assistance. Understanding these changes can help caregivers focus not only on completing a task, but on preserving the person's abilities for as long as possible. Responding to Resistance With Compassion Resistance does not always mean that someone does not want to cooperate. The person may be confused, uncomfortable, frightened, embarrassed, overwhelmed, tired, or unsure of what is being asked of them. Throughout the series, caregivers will find practical strategies such as slowing down, reducing distractions, and acknowledging feelings. Sometimes changing how we approach an activity can make just as much difference as changing the activity itself. Explore Dementia Unplugged™: Care Essentials Whether you are supporting a family member, friend, client, or someone else living with Dementia, Care Essentials provides practical education you can return to throughout the Dementia journey. Each activity offers an opportunity to better understand the person behind the diagnosis and to find new ways to support them as their needs change. Watch the Dementia Unplugged™: Care Essentials series on YouTube: View the Care Essentials Playlist Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

The doctor told me that, “Dementia is the description for the changes we have all noticed.” These are sobering words are ones that elicit conversation between loved ones. The location could be an office where a counselor facilitates productive discussion. Or perhaps the best place is an informal one where coffee and cake create an atmosphere of comfort and connectedness. It’s hard to know where to begin. Some find it easiest to let the conversation gradually drift from the weather to the emotional and practical aspects of Dementia. Others prefer having the help of a counselor to guide productive exchange. People in the early stages of Dementia may be the ones who initiate the discussion. He or she may start by addressing their fears about what they face and their distress about becoming a burden. He or she may have words to say about choosing the person who they hope will oversee their care, as well as express the desire that Dementia does not create ill will between family members. His or her thoughts about end-of-life care are another important topic. Here, listening may be more important than discussion. Listen to what he or she has to say about advance directives, comfort (palliative) care, and hospice--the last stage of palliative care. Conversation among loved ones will undoubtedly include more immediate wishes such as enjoying time together, taking bucket-list adventures, and tackling the “things I have always wanted to do” list. This is the time to create memories. Sometimes families do not have the luxury of beginning a conversation with a diagnosis of early-stage Dementia. When this is the case, your loved one may still be able to listen and perhaps make comments. Be sure to acknowledge their presence and, as much as possible, engage them in the discussion. Keep the Conversation Going Speaking with and among loved ones is an ongoing process. Events occur that require reassessment. Family dynamics may have deteriorated and should be addressed before they worsen. It may be time to talk about the conflicts between personal views about death and dying and your loved one’s advance directives. Or perhaps reassessment involves orchestrating a family gathering or a final adventure. It's so important to begin having the conversation early. Content Contributor: Janet Yagoda Shagam, Ph.D., is a freelance medical and science writer and the author of "An Unintended Journey: A Caregiver's Guide to Dementia.", available through Amazon. Please visit our Author's page to learn more and find this title. Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

Click here for Spanish Click here for French Video Transcript [Answer 1133] Welcome and thank you for joining me. Today, we'll talk about using storytelling with people living with Dementia. Storytelling is a simple and powerful way to connect, share memories, and bring joy to someone living with Dementia. Stories can open doors to the past, spark emotions, and create meaningful moments of connection. Why is Storytelling Helpful? As Dementia changes memory and thinking, it can be hard for someone to remember facts or details, but feelings and familiar memories often remain. Storytelling focuses on what a person can share: their emotions, experiences, and imagination. Instead of what they may have forgotten, it helps them feel valued and understood. How to Use Storytelling Start with something simple and familiar: an old photo, a song, or an object, like a favorite hat or recipe book. Ask a gentle question, such as, "Tell me about this day." There's no right or wrong answer. Listen closely and let the person lead the story. If they mix up details, that's okay. What matters most is their enjoyment and connection. You can also make up stories together. Use imagination and creativity. For example, show a picture and ask, "What do you think is happening here?" This could help spark laughter and build a sense of togetherness. Tips for Success Be patient. Give time for answers, and show genuine interest. Use a calm voice, smile often, and avoid correcting or interrupting. The goal isn't accuracy; it's connection, comfort, and joy. Storytelling can turn an ordinary day into a shared moment of love and meaning. On behalf of the Dementia Society of America®, thank you again for joining me today. Stay informed, stay healthy, and take care of yourself. Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

Click here for Spanish Click here for French Video Transcript [Answer 1125] Welcome and thank you for joining me. Today, we're going to talk about how to give medications to people living with Dementia as Dementia progresses. Remembering to take medicine or understanding why it's needed can become difficult. Caregivers often play an important role in making sure medications are taken safely and on time. Why Is This Important? Taking medicine correctly helps manage symptoms, prevent illness, and improve comfort. But confusion, fear, or difficulty swallowing pills can make this a daily challenge. With patience and planning, medication time can become smoother and less stressful for both the person and the caregiver. Helpful Tips for Giving Medication First, keep a clear schedule and use a pill organizer or labeled box for each day. Set alarms or reminders for regular times. A written list of each medication, what it's for, and when to take it can also help prevent mistakes. Second, create a calm environment. Offer medicine at the same time each day, in a quiet space, without rushing. Speak kindly and explain in simple words, "Here's your pill for your heart," rather than giving several instructions at once. Third, if the person resists or forgets, don't argue. Instead, wait a few minutes and try again with a gentle tone. You can also ask the doctor or pharmacist whether a liquid form, patch, or crushed version is safe. Never change or mix medicines without professional advice. Lastly, watch for side effects such as dizziness, sleepiness, or an upset stomach, and report them to the healthcare provider. With patience, routine, and clear communication, medication time can become a positive and safe part of the day. On behalf of the Dementia Society of America®, thank you again for joining me today. Stay informed, stay healthy, and take care of yourself. Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

Click here for Spanish Click here for French Video Transcript [Answer 1086] Welcome and thank you for joining me. Today, we'll talk about how sleep impacts brain health. Sleep is not just rest. It's when the brain heals. During sleep, the brain clears away waste, repairs cells, and helps store memories. When someone doesn't sleep well, their brain doesn't get the chance to recharge. For people living with Dementia, sleep can become more difficult. They may wake often during the night, sleep during the day, or feel restless and confused. In the evening, the brain has become overfatigued. These changes can make thinking, mood, and memory even harder. Poor sleep can also increase daytime confusion and irritability and even raise the risk of falls. Why is good sleep so important? When the brain gets enough rest, it can work better, helping a person feel calmer, more focused, and more balanced. Quality sleep supports both the person living with Dementia and their caregivers, making daily routines easier and more peaceful. How can caregivers help improve sleep? Try keeping a regular schedule, going to bed and waking up at the same times each day. Encourage light physical activity and exposure to natural light during the day. In the evening, make the environment calm and quiet. Dim the lights, reduce noise, and avoid caffeine and large meals close to bedtime. A simple bedtime routine, such as listening to soft music or having a warm drink, can also help the body relax. If sleep problems continue, speak with a healthcare provider. They can help identify causes and find solutions. On behalf of the Dementia Society of America®, thank you again for joining me today. Stay informed, stay healthy, and take care of yourself. Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

Click here for Spanish Click here for French Video Transcript [Answer 1008] Welcome and thank you for joining me. Today we're going to talk about why it's important to avoid criticism when caring for someone living with Dementia. When a person yells, refuses care, wanders, or becomes upset, it's easy to react with frustration or correction. But instead of criticizing, pause and get curious. These moments can be stressful, but remember the person isn't trying to be difficult. Dementia changes how the brain understands, reacts to, and makes sense of the world. When we respond with curiosity instead of criticism, we can better understand what the person may be feeling, needing, or trying to communicate. What does curiosity mean? Curiosity means gently asking, "What is this behavior telling me? " instead of saying, "Why are they acting this way?" When we use curiosity, we look for the reason behind the behavior. The person may be feeling pain, fear, hunger, tiredness, or confusion. They may not have the words to explain it. Why avoid criticism? Even when spoken calmly, criticism can increase fear and distress. Saying things like, "Stop that!" or "You already told me" may make the person feel unsafe or ashamed. Research shows that stress and fear can make Dementia symptoms worse. A calm, curious response helps lower anxiety and build trust. How can you respond with curiosity? Pause and take a breath. Observe what is happening around the person. Ask yourself simple questions. Are they too hot or cold? Is the room too noisy? Are they tired or in pain? Try gentle words like, "You seem upset. How can I help?" Or, "Let's figure this out together." Use simple solutions. Change the environment, not the person. Reassure them that they are in a safe space. Lower noise, offer a snack, suggest a rest, or redirect to a calming activity like music or a short walk. Praise cooperation and focus on what the person can do. Using curiosity shows respect and compassion. It helps you see the person behind the behavior and respond with kindness instead of frustration. On behalf of the Dementia Society of America®, thank you again for joining me today. Stay informed, stay healthy, and take care of yourself. Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

Click here for Spanish Click here for French Video Transcript [Answer 1039] Welcome and thank you for joining me. Today we're going to talk about important LGBTQIA+ concerns for people living with Dementia. LGBTQIA+ stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, Intersex, and Asexual. The "+" sign represents all other sexual orientations and gender identities. Every person, no matter who they are or who they love, deserves respect, safety, and understanding. For many LGBTQIA+ older adults, past experiences of discrimination or needing to hide their true selves may shape how they feel about care and support today. As Dementia progresses, these feelings can become even stronger. Why is this important? People living with Dementia may lose the ability to explain who they are or which relationships matter most to them. They may feel unsure about trusting caregivers or worried about being judged. Some may fear unfair treatment or that their identity will be ignored. These concerns can cause stress, withdrawal, or confusion. Understanding them helps caregivers provide a safe, supportive environment. How can caregivers support LGBTQIA+ individuals? Start with respect. Always honor a person's chosen name, pronouns, and relationships. If a partner or close friend is an important part of their life, include them as you would any family member. Create a safe space by using open, non-judgmental language. Avoid assumptions about the person's past. Ask simple, respectful questions only when needed, and follow the person's lead. Familiar items such as photos, music, books, or meaningful symbols can help someone feel grounded and accepted, especially if they spent years hiding their identity. In care settings, staff should receive training on LGBTQIA+ issues and inclusive communication. This helps reduce fear and build trust. Supporting LGBTQIA+ people living with Dementia means honoring their identity with kindness, dignity, and understanding. On behalf of the Dementia Society of America®, thank you again for joining me today. Stay informed, stay healthy, and take care of yourself. Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

Click here for Spanish Click here for French Video Transcript [Answer 1004] Welcome and thank you for joining me. Today we're going to talk about why culture is important when supporting people living with Dementia. Culture includes a person's values, beliefs, traditions, language, food, faith practices, and ways of interacting with others. These parts of life shape who we are, and they continue to matter even as Dementia progresses. Why does culture matter? Current research shows that people feel safer and more connected when care matches their cultural background. Familiar food, music, language, and routines can help reduce confusion and bring comfort. Studies also show that cultural familiarity can help lower stress and support emotional well-being for people living with Dementia. Language is especially important. Some people may lose the ability to speak a second language and return to the language they learned first. Caregivers may notice that the person responds better when spoken to in a familiar language or dialect. Using the person's preferred language can improve communication and lower frustration. Cultural traditions can also help. Simple activities such as faith practices, holiday celebrations, storytelling, or listening to music from one's childhood can spark memories and create meaningful moments. These familiar experiences help the person feel respected and understood. Care must be culturally sensitive. Different cultures have different views about family roles, caregiving, and aging. Some families expect to provide all care at home while others rely on outside support. Understanding these beliefs helps caregivers offer respectful person-centered care. Research also shows that some cultural groups face barriers to diagnosis and services, such as stigma or lack of access. Recognizing these challenges helps communities improve support. Culture is more than background. It is part of a person's identity. Honoring culture brings dignity, comfort, and connection throughout the Dementia journey. On behalf of the Dementia Society of America®, thank you again for joining me today. Stay informed, stay healthy, and take care of yourself. Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.

Ginny Gives Logo Ginny with Her Beloved Rudy What if innovation in Dementia care could help someone sing again, create again, move again, connect again—or simply experience a moment of joy with someone they love? At the Dementia Society of America®, we believe innovation isn't limited to laboratories, medicines, or technology. Innovation can also happen at a piano, around an art table, on a dance floor, in a garden, or during a quiet moment between a person living with Dementia and someone who cares about them. That belief is at the heart of the Ginny Gives® Awards. Named in honor of Ginny J., whose journey with Dementia helped inspire the founding of the Dementia Society of America, Ginny Gives Awards recognize others who develop and deliver creative ways to improve life for people living with Dementia and their care partners. Dementia Innovation That Improves Life Today Dementia research is essential. We need scientists searching for better ways to understand, detect, treat, prevent, and someday overcome the many diseases and conditions that can cause Dementia. But people and families affected by Dementia also need help today. That is why the Dementia Society supports a broad approach—one that combines Dementia education, research, care, support, and life engagement. Life engagement focuses on the person, not simply the diagnosis. Music, visual arts, dance and movement, touch and sensory experiences, storytelling, gardening, animals, theater, and other creative approaches can provide opportunities for participation, expression, comfort, and human connection. The Ginny Gives Awards celebrate innovative work in these areas and encourage others to imagine what else might be possible. Seeing the Person, Not Just Dementia Dementia may affect memory, language, reasoning, and independence. But those changes do not erase the person. Someone who cannot remember the name of a favorite song may still sing when the music begins. Someone who has difficulty finding words may communicate through color, movement, rhythm, touch, or a smile. Moments matter: Ginny Gives Awards They remind us that good Dementia care isn't only about addressing what has been lost. It is also about discovering, supporting, and celebrating what remains. Your Gift to Dementia Society Helps Fuel Innovation When donors support the Dementia Society of America, they help make a much larger mission possible. Your generosity helps us advance Dementia awareness and education, support families, encourage innovative approaches to life engagement, and help fund promising Dementia research. Ginny Gives represents an important part of that mission because innovation can take many forms. Sometimes innovation means a scientist asking a question that has never been asked before. Sometimes it means an educator finding a better way to help a family understand Dementia. Sometimes it means a caregiver discovering that a familiar song can reach someone when words cannot. And sometimes it means recognizing an extraordinary idea and helping others learn from it. More Life in Every Day The Ginny Gives Awards are ultimately about possibility. They challenge us to think differently about Dementia—not only in terms of disorders, disability, and decline, but also in terms of what we can do to improve quality of life. We still have much to discover. Much work remains in Dementia research. And millions of individuals and families need information, encouragement, resources, and support right now. Together, through compassion, creativity, research, and innovation, we can help change the experience of Dementia—while putting more life in every day.

Click here for Spanish Click here for French Video Transcript [Answer 1006] Welcome and thank you for joining me. Today, we're going to talk about Dementia-sensitive language. This simply means the words we use when we talk about people living with Dementia. The way we speak can make a big difference. Words can hurt, or they can help. When we choose words that are respectful, kind, and clear, we show that we value the person, not just their condition. Dementia-sensitive language avoids labels that can make someone feel less than a full person. For example, instead of saying "a Dementia sufferer" or "an invalid," we can say "a person living with Dementia." This reminds us that they are a person first, with hopes, feelings, and dignity. Just like anyone else, the disorder is only one part of their life, not their whole identity. It also means using simple, respectful, and positive words. For instance, we avoid saying someone is "crazy" or "losing their mind." Instead, we might say they are experiencing memory changes or facing challenges with thinking and remembering. These phrases are easier to hear, and they help reduce fear and shame. We also pay attention to the everyday words we use. For example, instead of saying "bib," say "napkin" or "clothing protector." Instead of "diaper," say "briefs" or "underpants." Instead of "agitated," say "distressed." Instead of saying "a feeder," say, "a person who needs assistance eating." Dementia-sensitive language also reminds us to speak with patience and calm. It is not only about the words, but also about the tone of voice. Gentle, respectful communication makes people feel safe, valued, and understood. In the end, Dementia touches many lives, but it does not erase a person's worth. The words we choose can bring comfort and respect. By practicing Dementia-sensitive language, we can help build understanding, kindness, and hope. On behalf of the Dementia Society of America®, thank you again for joining me today. Stay informed, stay healthy, and take care of yourself. Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.