In this episode on the Living with Alzheimer's podcast, Christoph interviews Andrea Tales, Professor of Dementia Research at Swansea University in Wales of the United Kingdom.

They discuss the book A New Approach to Dementia: Examining Sensory and Perceptual Impairment, written by Andrea and fellow researchers Jan Kremláček and Emma Richards.

The book focuses on the shifting perceptions with vision, smell, taste, and hearing that can accompany changes in the brain related to dementia. 

Andrea explains that sensory changes, such as hearing loss, can help early recognition of dementia. She goes on to explain that this book focuses on understanding the sensory changes that occur during the dementia journey and how this awareness can help caregivers develop more individualized and effective care strategies.

Christoph and Andrea discuss the self-reporting of the research participants at the foundation of this book. The participants’ personal stories describe the shifting perspectives and perceptions they have experienced as they have lived with dementia. These personal stories help the general public access the insights contained in the book.

They continue their conversation discussing environmental modifications families and businesses can consider to make their environments more dementia friendly. Andrea has been an advocate for way-finding signage to help prevent people living with dementia from getting lost. She also shares how removing clutter can be a simple way to help people living with dementia.

Christoph and Andrea wrap up their conversation talking about who can benefit by reading this book, which can be found at Routledge’s website.