Denial & Dementia: Why Waiting Can Lead to Crisis

In this episode of Aging Starts Now, Outreach Coordinator Dana Hentschel sits down with Certified Elder Law Attorney Barbara McGinnis to talk about one of the most difficult—and most overlooked—parts of dementia: denial.

Families often explain away the early signs… the confusion, the personality changes, the small mistakes. But when warning signs are ignored, the consequences can quickly escalate.

Dana and Barbara share the real story of a family who struggled to accept their father’s dementia until it led to a heartbreaking crisis. Together, they break down:

Why denial is such a powerful force

How to recognize when “normal aging” may be something more

The risks of delaying action

What families can do to move toward acceptance and safety

Whether you’re caring for an aging loved one or want to better understand dementia, this is a meaningful and eye-opening conversation you won’t want to miss.