Many children are fortunate to form deep, lasting bonds with their grandparents or great-grandparents, gleaning pearls of wisdom that help them understand different perspectives on the human experience that will last a lifetime.<\/p>\n
Young children often understand that people age, and sometimes getting older means not being as mobile or active as the person once might have been. However, it can be jarring to children if their beloved grandparent, who appears outwardly healthy, one day forgets the child\u2019s name or doesn\u2019t immediately recognize them.<\/p>\n
An Alzheimer\u2019s disease or dementia diagnosis is hard on families<\/a>, but the effects of the condition can be especially devastating to children. Talking to them about a grandparent\u2019s memory loss due to dementia can be difficult, but with an empathetic approach, you can help them understand the condition and even provide their grandparents with support.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.0″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb] While it\u2019s natural to want to protect children from difficult truths, being open about dementia is better from the start of the disease. Use simple words to explain how it affects their grandparent and the changes they might notice over time. Help them see that they have an important role in this journey, walking alongside grandma by showing love, patience, and presence.<\/p>\n As the condition progresses, the symptoms can become more apparent, causing the child to potentially grieve for the grandparent they once knew. Additionally, parents may begin to spend more time with the grandparent, which may trigger feelings of resentment in the child if they\u2019re in the dark about what\u2019s happening. <\/p>\n Kids may also seem impatient when their grandparent asks the same question repeatedly or feel embarrassed or fearful if they witness unusual behaviour in front of others. This is why it\u2019s essential that your child understand what\u2019s happening as soon as possible before the older person\u2019s symptoms worsen. <\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.0″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb] Be honest and clear<\/strong><\/p>\n Hiding the truth from your children may seem like the easiest thing to do early on, but it\u2019s not sustainable as dementia progresses. Being honest and upfront with your child is the best approach. Explain in simple terms what dementia is, how it will affect the grandparent, and the impact the condition might have on your family. Tell them that grandma\u2019s dementia is a journey, and that your child can help by accompanying her on that journey by holding her hand and being there. <\/p>\n Depending on the age and maturity level of the child, you can go into detail about how dementia affects the brain, why the grandparent\u2019s behaviour might change, and share that although the condition can be slowed down, it is not curable. <\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.0″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb] Listen to their concerns<\/strong><\/p>\n It\u2019s critical to allow the children to ask questions and express their thoughts about the situation. Ask them how they feel and listen carefully to their feedback. They might need time to absorb the information and organize their thoughts, so give them the space they need until they\u2019re ready.<\/p>\n Be prepared that some children, especially adolescents, may prefer to speak with their peers or a trusted adult outside of the immediate family, such as an aunt\/uncle, teacher, or guidance counsellor. What\u2019s essential is that they\u2019re expressing themselves and not bottling up things that can manifest in other ways.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.0″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb] Remind them that their grandparent is still there<\/strong><\/p>\n It\u2019s crucial that they understand that the changed behaviour isn\u2019t their grandparent\u2019s fault and, deep down inside, their grandparent loves them, even if they\u2019re unable to express it. Reminding your child that their grandparent is important to your family may also help reassure them.<\/p>\n The child might be sad about not being able to do everything they used to enjoy with their grandparent. Try focusing on the positive things they can still do together, such as watching a movie, listening to music, talking about their day, and reminiscing. <\/p>\n Being open with your kids about dementia seems like a frightening concept, but they might surprise you. Children are often more resilient and resourceful than many believe, and they may welcome an opportunity to be part of the support team. <\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.0″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb] Even with an understanding of their grandparent\u2019s condition, they may still hesitate to visit, worried about saying or doing the wrong thing.<\/p>\n You can support them by giving them these practical tips on having a positive, enjoyable visit:<\/p>\n The eldercare team at CareHop<\/a> understands that being both a parent and a caregiver to an older loved one with dementia can be challenging at the best of times. That\u2019s why when you need friendly, professional eldercare support that brings peace of mind to the entire family, we\u2019re the ones to call first<\/a>.<\/p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.24.3″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb] CareHop specializes in providing safe, professional eldercare services, including on-demand Alzheimer\u2019s disease and dementia care<\/a>, personal care<\/a> and senior-friendly housekeeping<\/a> that bring peace of mind to families who need support.<\/p>\nShould we tell our children about their grandparent\u2019s dementia?<\/h2>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.0″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb]
The answer is yes – and here\u2019s why.<\/h4>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.0″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb]
How to explain a grandparent\u2019s dementia to children<\/h3>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.0″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb]
Here are some tips to help you discuss a grandparent\u2019s dementia with your children:<\/strong><\/h4>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.0″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb]
Tips for children on visiting a grandparent with dementia<\/h2>\n
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Quality in-home elder care services in Toronto, Etobicoke, Mississauga, and Brampton<\/h3>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\u00a0\u00bb4.27.0″ _module_preset=\u00a0\u00bbdefault\u00a0\u00bb global_colors_info=\u00a0\u00bb{}\u00a0\u00bb theme_builder_area=\u00a0\u00bbpost_content\u00a0\u00bb]