In this episode, Lisa explores one of the most challenging and misunderstood symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease — aphasia, the loss of language and communication abilities that often accompanies dementia.

Through a touching real-life story from her book Truth, Lies & Alzheimer’s – Its Secret Faces, Lisa introduces us to Harvey in “The Pill Box Story.” Harvey’s daughter believed her father could no longer understand or care for himself. But when Lisa visits, she discovers that while Harvey struggles to find the right words, his mind and awareness are far more intact than anyone realized.

This powerful story illustrates how aphasia affects speech, understanding, reading, and writing, and how these challenges can easily be mistaken for cognitive decline. Lisa explains why communication difficulties don’t always mean loss of comprehension — and how loved ones can learn to see the difference.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• What aphasia really is and how it progresses in dementia
• How families often misinterpret communication loss as a total cognitive decline
• Ways to support and engage loved ones living with aphasia
• Practical communication tips for caregivers to reduce frustration and improve connection

Key Takeaway:

Even when words are lost, understanding and emotion remain. People living with Alzheimer’s and related dementias often know far more than they can express — and with patience, empathy, and awareness, we can still connect deeply.

Resources Mentioned:

Truth, Lies & Alzheimer’s – Its Secret Faces by Lisa Skinner

Listen to more episodes at truthliesalzheimers.com