What Happens When Dementia Affects the Senses? Agnes Houston’s Lived Experience

Episode Summary

In this episode of Dementia Caregivers’ Corner Podcast, we explore the often-overlooked sensory and perceptual challenges faced by people living with dementia. Our guest, Agnes Houston MBE, diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s in 2006, shares her lived experience and international research through her Churchill Fellowship and her books Talking Sense and A New Approach to Dementia. Agnes opens up about how sensory changes affect daily life, why the voices of people with lived experience matter, and how her work continues to shape dementia care and awareness worldwide.

 

3 Key Topics Discussed

 

The sensory and perceptual challenges people with dementia face, from sight and sound to touch and taste.

Agnes Houston’s lived experience, research journey, and recognitions such as the MBE and Churchill Fellowship.

The importance of including voices of people with lived experience in dementia research and care practices.

 

3 Takeaway Points

 

Sensory changes are a significant but often overlooked aspect of dementia that can greatly affect daily life.

Practical strategies—like awareness, family support, and informed care—can help manage these challenges.

Empowering people with dementia to share their experiences is vital for shaping better services, understanding, and policies.

 

Resources Mentioned

A New Approach to Dementia: Examining Sensory and Perceptual Impairment.

Agnes Houston`s eBook: Talking Sense: Living With Sensory Changes and Dementia

https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/honouring-jennifer-josey-1944-2024-a-journey/id1710778347?i=1000686624853