McGill Cares - Why insight can be lost in dementia: understanding anosognosia

Thomas Tannou, MD, PhD, is a geriatrician at the Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal and an assistant clinical professor in the Department of Medicine at the Université de Montréal. Trained in France, he holds a PhD in neuroscience focused on self-perception and decision-making in Alzheimer’s disease. His work sits at the intersection of geriatrics, neuroscience, and health technologies, with a particular interest in autonomy, judgment, and supporting people living with dementia and their caregivers through ethically grounded care. He is also a member of Quebec’s Alzheimer’s Plan advisory committee and the Quebec National Advisory Committee on Ethics in Aging.   During this episode of McGill Cares, Dr. Tannou will explain why insight might be lost in dementia, focusing on a neurological condition called anosognosia. He will discuss how anosognosia affects everyday situations such as safety, decision-making, and relationships, and share practical, compassionate strategies to help caregivers communicate, intervene ethically, and know when to seek additional support. This free webcast is available in both ENGLISH and FRENCH. March 18, 2026