Episode 181

Loss of Smell: An Early Sign We Shouldn’t Ignore

Loss of Smell: An Early Sign We Shouldn’t Ignore

In this episode of The Truth, Lies & Alzheimer’s Show, Lisa Skinner explores an often-overlooked symptom that may provide an early clue to neurological changes: loss of smell, also known as hyposmia.

A reduced sense of smell is commonly associated with Parkinson’s disease and can sometimes appear years, or even decades, before a diagnosis. While losing your sense of smell does not mean that you will develop Parkinson’s disease, it is a symptom worth paying attention to, especially when it occurs alongside other neurological changes.

Lisa discusses why our sense of smell matters, how changes in smell can affect taste, appetite, nutrition, and quality of life, and why subtle changes in the body should not always be dismissed as simply part of aging.

This episode is an important reminder to notice changes, ask questions, and talk with a healthcare provider when something feels different.

Learn More

For additional information about loss of smell and Parkinson’s disease, visit the Parkinson’s Foundation:

https://www.parkinson.org/understanding-parkinsons/non-movement-symptoms/loss-of-smell

Hashtags

#TruthLiesAndAlzheimers #MindingDementia #LisaSkinner #ParkinsonsDisease #ParkinsonsAwareness #LossOfSmell #Hyposmia #NeurologicalHealth #BrainHealth #DementiaAwareness #EarlyWarningSigns #CaregiverEducation #HealthyAging #PersonCenteredCare

The Parkinson’s Foundation notes that hyposmia is a common early Parkinson’s symptom, although not everyone who experiences reduced smell will develop Parkinson’s disease. (parkinson.org)

About the Podcast

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Truth, Lies & Alzheimer's

About your host

Profile picture for Lisa Skinner, CDP, CDT

Lisa Skinner, CDP, CDT

Author Lisa Skinner is a behavioral specialist with expertise in Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia. In her 30+year career working with family members and caregivers, Lisa has taught them how to successfully navigate the many challenges that accompany this heartbreaking disease. Lisa is both a Certified Dementia Practitioner and is also a certified dementia care trainer through the Alzheimer’s Association. She also holds a degree in Human Behavior.
Her latest book, “Truth, Lies & Alzheimer’s – Its Secret Faces” continues Skinner’s quest of working with dementia-related illnesses and teaching families and caregivers how to better understand the daunting challenges of brain disease. Her #1 Best-selling book “Not All Who Wander Need Be Lost,” was written at their urging. As someone who has had eight family members diagnosed with dementia, Lisa Skinner has found her calling in helping others through the struggle so they can have a better-quality relationship with their loved ones through education, workshops on counter-intuitive solutions to help people effectively manage the symptoms of brain disease. Lisa Skinner has appeared on over 400 national, international media broadcasts. Lisa helps explain behaviors caused by dementia, encourages those who feel burdened, and gives effective advice for how to respond to false beliefs.