Challenging the Behavioral Paradigm: 

The Unequivocal Rights of PLWD to Express Themselves

 Lori La Bey and Leah Bisiani explore the importance of dignified, personalised relationship-based support for all individuals living with dementia.

The conversation touches on the need for better support systems as the aging population grows, and the importance of listening to people living with dementia.

The ladies discussed the recent International Dementia and Innovation Conference in Bali, where people with dementia were given a platform to share their lived experiences and provide a voice of advocacy for all people living with dementia.

They discussed the Aashaya Jasri Resort, also in Bali, which offers an “inclusive disability-enabling” holiday experience, designed for people living with dementia and people with disabilities, to enjoy a holiday in paradise.

 

Dementia Stigma and Respectful Discussion

Leah and Lori discussed the need to change societal perceptions and conditioning about dementia and those who live with it, emphasizing the importance of treating all individuals with dignity and respect by upholding their human rights.

They highlighted how negative portrayals and terminology contribute to stigma and prejudicial bias, and agreed that people with dementia deserve advocacy, support, and understanding.

The conversation also touched on the monetization of fear by big businesses and the importance of addressing normal human responses to unmet needs in relation to the person, “listening” to what they are trying to communicate, as opposed to labelling people living with dementia, and describing changes in behaviour as problematic.

 

Dementia Support: Person-Centered Approach

Leah and Lori discussed how critical it is to emphasize the importance of understanding changes in behaviour as authentic responses to feeling misunderstood, devalued, and disrespected.

They highlighted the need for person-centered support that addresses both medical, physiological, psychological, cognitive and emotional needs, advocating for a shift in how society perceives people living with dementia.

Lori noted the lack of relationship-focused training in care settings, while Leah agreed and stressed the significance of nurturing relationships through providing inclusive, meaningful engagement for people living with dementia, enabling them to continue life as they know it, and live well with dementia.

 

Engaging Older Adults with Dignity

Lori and Leah discussed the importance of recognizing and engaging with older adults, particularly those with dementia, to prevent feelings of invisibility and loneliness.

They highlighted the prevalence of undiagnosed depression among older people in residential aged care and the need to differentiate between depression and dementia.

Leah shared her research findings with the results suggesting that 4 older people supposedly living with dementia, post treatment of depression, returned to full cognitive function, and had been misdiagnosed with dementia, when they really had chronic depression.

Lori and Leah emphasized the importance of understanding individual and specific needs and providing environments that promote emotional well-being and a sense of control.

They agreed that aging well initiatives should prioritize maintaining a person’s dignity and quality of life, acknowledging the diversity of the human population, and that “going without is not an option”.

 

Dementia Communication and Technology

Lori and Leah discussed the challenges faced by individuals with dementia, placed upon them by society, including bullying and misconceptions about their condition. They emphasized the importance of adapting communication methods to accommodate those with dementia, highlighting the significance of non-verbal communication. They also touched on the impact of technology on social interaction, noting a shift towards less face-to-face communication among younger generations, which is going to have a huge effect on future care.

 

Dementia Communication and Support Strategies

Leah and Lori discussed the importance of understanding and communicating with people who have dementia, highlighting the need to adapt communication methods that respect cognitive capabilities and other age-related conditions that may impact well-being.

Leah shared her experience in managing homes for people living with dementia, where she provided support that enabled people to thrive and live well with dementia, highlighting the success of personalized, relationship-based frameworks that eliminate stress-related responses and promote joy and happiness. They both agreed that these learnings are applicable beyond dementia support, enriching personal and professional lives.

 

Legacy and Empowerment in Healthcare

Leah and Lori discussed the importance of leaving a legacy in healthcare, emphasizing the need for succession planning and empowering teams.

They shared personal experiences and strategies for creating change, including regular job description reviews and open-door policies.

Leah highlighted the significance of recognizing and nurturing staff, while Lori emphasized the impact of small, consistent changes.

Leah finished off with one of her quotes:

“Evidently, we are accountable for nurturing our own humanity to support civilisation, and value the cultivation of kindness, by respecting our vulnerable older population, and especially people living with dementia.

We must acquire the ability to develop compassion; we should critique isolation and reintroduce community and culture changes, subsequently refining our great power and precision in response to a more humane philosophy.

Reach out and be proud to advocate and provide a voice of strength for the empathy revolution”.

– Leah Bisiani

 

Alzheimer’s Speaks Blog Post

https://alzheimersspeaks.com/hope-for-dementia-care-wrapped-in-wisdom-compassion/

 

Watch the Video Interview Below

https://youtu.be/0Wk84l688_M

 

Listen and Subscribe to Alzheimer’s Speaks on Apple Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hope-for-dementia-care-wrapped-in-wisdom-compassion/id986940432?i=1000735003212

 

Listen and Subscribe to Alzheimer’s Speaks on Spotify

https://open.spotify.com/episode/5Gg4dV1PulGdDdLvUR41vq

 

Other Podcasts

https://pod.link/986940432

 

Dementia Map

https://dementiamap.com/events/#!event/2025/10/28/challenging-the-behavioural-paradigm-the-unequivocal-rights-of-plwd-to-express-themselves

 

 

Contact Leah Bisiani 

Website   https://upliftingdementia.com/

Instagram    @uplifting_dementia

 

Contact Lori La Beywith questions or branding needs at https://www.alzheimersspeaks.com/

Alzheimer's Speaks Radio - Shifting dementia care from crisis to comfort around the world one episode at a time by raising all voices and delivering sound news, not just sound bites, since 2011.

Alzheimer's Speaks is part of the Senior Resource Podcast Network.

Challenging the Behavioral Paradigm: 
The Unequivocal Rights of PLWD to Express Themselves
&nbsp;Lori La Bey and Leah Bisiani&nbsp;explore the importance of dignified, personalised relationship-based support for all individuals living with dementia.
The conversation touches on the need for better support systems as the aging population grows, and the importance of listening to people living with dementia.
The ladies discussed the recent International Dementia and Innovation Conference in Bali, where people with dementia were given a platform to share their lived experiences and provide a voice of advocacy for all people living with dementia.
They discussed the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jasriresort.com/">Aashaya Jasri Resort</a>, also in Bali, which offers an &ldquo;inclusive disability-enabling&rdquo; holiday experience, designed for people living with dementia and people with disabilities, to enjoy a holiday in paradise.
&nbsp;
Dementia Stigma and Respectful Discussion
Leah and Lori discussed the need to change societal perceptions and conditioning about dementia and those who live with it, emphasizing the importance of treating all individuals with dignity and respect by upholding their human rights.
They highlighted how negative portrayals and terminology contribute to stigma and prejudicial bias, and agreed that people with dementia deserve advocacy, support, and understanding.
The conversation also touched on the monetization of fear by big businesses and the importance of addressing normal human responses to unmet needs in relation to the person, &ldquo;listening&rdquo; to what they are trying to communicate, as opposed to labelling people living with dementia, and describing changes in behaviour as problematic.
&nbsp;
Dementia Support: Person-Centered Approach
Leah and Lori discussed how critical it is to emphasize the importance of understanding changes in behaviour as authentic responses to feeling misunderstood, devalued, and disrespected.
They highlighted the need for person-centered support that addresses both medical, physiological, psychological, cognitive and emotional needs, advocating for a shift in how society perceives people living with dementia.
Lori noted the lack of relationship-focused training in care settings, while Leah agreed and stressed the significance of nurturing relationships through providing inclusive, meaningful engagement for people living with dementia, enabling them to continue life as they know it, and live well with dementia.
&nbsp;
Engaging Older Adults with Dignity
Lori and Leah discussed the importance of recognizing and engaging with older adults, particularly those with dementia, to prevent feelings of invisibility and loneliness.
They highlighted the prevalence of undiagnosed depression among older people in residential aged care and the need to differentiate between depression and dementia.
Leah shared her research findings with the results suggesting that 4 older people supposedly living with dementia, post treatment of depression, returned to full cognitive function, and had been misdiagnosed with dementia, when they really had chronic depression.
Lori and Leah emphasized the importance of understanding individual and specific needs and providing environments that promote emotional well-being and a sense of control.
They agreed that aging well initiatives should prioritize maintaining a person&rsquo;s dignity and quality of life, acknowledging the diversity of the human population, and that &ldquo;going without is not an option&rdquo;.
&nbsp;
Dementia Communication and Technology
Lori and Leah discussed the challenges faced by individuals with dementia, placed upon them by society, including bullying and misconceptions about their condition. They emphasized the importance of adapting communication methods to accommodate those with dementia, highlighting the significance of non-verbal communication. They also touched on the impact of technology on social interaction, noting a shift towards less face-to-face communication among younger generations, which is going to have a huge effect on future care.
&nbsp;
Dementia Communication and Support Strategies
Leah and Lori discussed the importance of understanding and communicating with people who have dementia, highlighting the need to adapt communication methods that respect cognitive capabilities and other age-related conditions that may impact well-being.
Leah shared her experience in managing homes for people living with dementia, where she provided support that enabled people to thrive and live well with dementia, highlighting the success of personalized, relationship-based frameworks that eliminate stress-related responses and promote joy and happiness. They both agreed that these learnings are applicable beyond dementia support, enriching personal and professional lives.
&nbsp;
Legacy and Empowerment in Healthcare
Leah and Lori discussed the importance of leaving a legacy in healthcare, emphasizing the need for succession planning and empowering teams.
They shared personal experiences and strategies for creating change, including regular job description reviews and open-door policies.
Leah highlighted the significance of recognizing and nurturing staff, while Lori emphasized the impact of small, consistent changes.
Leah finished off with one of her quotes:
&ldquo;Evidently, we are accountable for nurturing our own humanity to support civilisation, and value the cultivation of kindness, by respecting our vulnerable older population, and especially people living with dementia.
We must acquire the ability to develop compassion; we should critique isolation and reintroduce community and culture changes, subsequently refining our great power and precision in response to a more humane philosophy.
Reach out and be proud to advocate and provide a voice of strength for the empathy revolution&rdquo;.
&ndash; Leah Bisiani
&nbsp;
Alzheimer&rsquo;s Speaks Blog Post
<a href="https://alzheimersspeaks.com/hope-for-dementia-care-wrapped-in-wisdom-compassion/">https://alzheimersspeaks.com/hope-for-dementia-care-wrapped-in-wisdom-compassion/</a>
&nbsp;
Watch the Video Interview Below
<a href="https://youtu.be/0Wk84l688_M">https://youtu.be/0Wk84l688_M</a>
&nbsp;
Listen and Subscribe to Alzheimer&rsquo;s Speaks on Apple Podcast
<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hope-for-dementia-care-wrapped-in-wisdom-compassion/id986940432?i=1000735003212">https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hope-for-dementia-care-wrapped-in-wisdom-compassion/id986940432?i=1000735003212</a>
&nbsp;
Listen and Subscribe to Alzheimer&rsquo;s Speaks on Spotify
<a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/5Gg4dV1PulGdDdLvUR41vq">https://open.spotify.com/episode/5Gg4dV1PulGdDdLvUR41vq</a>
&nbsp;
Other Podcasts
<a href="https://pod.link/986940432">https://pod.link/986940432</a>
&nbsp;
Dementia Map
<a href="https://dementiamap.com/events/#!event/2025/10/28/challenging-the-behavioural-paradigm-the-unequivocal-rights-of-plwd-to-express-themselves">https://dementiamap.com/events/#!event/2025/10/28/challenging-the-behavioural-paradigm-the-unequivocal-rights-of-plwd-to-express-themselves</a>
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Contact Leah Bisiani 
Website &nbsp;<a href="https://upliftingdementia.com/">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://upliftingdementia.com/">https://upliftingdementia.com/</a> 
Instagram&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; @uplifting_dementia
&nbsp;
Contact <a href="mailto:Radio@AlzheimersSpeaks.com?subject=I%20hear%20you%20on%20Alzheimer's%20Speaks%20Radio">Lori La Bey</a> with questions or branding needs at <a href="https://www.alzheimersspeaks.com/">https://www.alzheimersspeaks.com/</a>
Alzheimer's Speaks Radio - Shifting dementia care from crisis to comfort around the world one episode at a time by raising all voices and delivering sound news, not just sound bites, since 2011.
Alzheimer's Speaks is part of the Senior Resource Podcast Network.

Alzheimer's Speaks Radio gives voice to all, sharing resources, tools, and products.   Through collaboration & education we are changing dementia care.

Alzheimer's Speaks

The Alzheimer’s Speaks show was launched in 2011 and is believed to be the first dementia-specific radio program in the world. The show caters to all types of dementia and caring needs. It has an international audience and has had the honor to be recognized by some of the most renowned names in the world - Oprah, Maria Shriver, AARP, the National Institute for Dementia Education, and Sharecare.

Lori La Bey hosts the show.  Her own mother lived with dementia for 30 years.  Her compassionate heart creates a safe and comfortable environment for her guests to speak honestly and openly as her audience listens in.  Alzheimer's Speaks is about giving voice to all, and sharing resources, tools, and products. Through collaboration & education, we are changing dementia care.

On Alzheimer's Speaks you will hear from those living with a diagnosis of dementia, and their care partners - family, friends, and professionals.  We've had a variety of researchers, and companies who have created a diverse array of products, services, and tools to ease the journey ahead. 

Join us as we educate, raise awareness, and give hope to those living with or serving those that are diagnosed. Bottom line, we believe together we can combine everyday life in the trenches insights, with medical, academic, and research models, to offer more options to live well with dementia.

BE A GIVER OF HOPE - SUBSCRIBE, LIKE AND SHARE OUR EPISODES

Everyone is welcome on the show, so if you have a personal or professional story about dementia, caregiving, or resources you believe individuals and organizations need to know about to improve our dementia care please Email Lori La Bey.

Also please feel free to access all of our FREE Educational Resources

Follow us on   

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Blog

Click here if you are looking for a Keynoter, Speaker, or Trainer.

If you are looking for more information about marketing and branding opportunities you can go here or email us directly.

The Alzheimer’s Speaks show was launched in 2011 and is believed to be the first dementia-specific radio program in the world. The show caters to all types of dementia and caring needs. It has an international audience and has had the honor to be recognized by some of the most renowned names in the world - Oprah, Maria Shriver, AARP, the National Institute for Dementia Education, and Sharecare.
Lori La Bey hosts the show.  Her own mother lived with dementia for 30 years.  Her compassionate heart creates a safe and comfortable environment for her guests to speak honestly and openly as her audience listens in.  Alzheimer's Speaks is about giving voice to all, and sharing resources, tools, and products. Through collaboration &amp; education, we are changing dementia care.
On Alzheimer's Speaks you will hear from those living with a diagnosis of dementia, and their care partners - family, friends, and professionals.  We've had a variety of researchers, and companies who have created a diverse array of products, services, and tools to ease the journey ahead. 
Join us as we educate, raise awareness, and give hope to those living with or serving those that are diagnosed. Bottom line, we believe together we can combine everyday life in the trenches insights, with medical, academic, and research models, to offer more options to live well with dementia.
BE A GIVER OF HOPE - SUBSCRIBE, LIKE AND SHARE OUR EPISODES Everyone is welcome on the show, so if you have a personal or professional story about dementia, caregiving, or resources you believe individuals and organizations need to know about to improve our dementia care please <a href="mailto:Radio@AlzheimersSpeaks.com">Email</a> Lori La Bey.
Also please feel free to access all of our <a href="https://alzheimersspeaks.com/free-educational-resources/">FREE Educational Resources</a>
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If you are looking for more information about <a href="https://alzheimersspeaks.com/marketing-branding-opportunities/">marketing and branding opportunities</a> you can go here or <a href="mailto:Radio@AlzheimersSpeaks.com">email us</a> directly.

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