Dementia Facts for Kids
Children will usually have a very hard time accepting and understanding dementia. If they knew the senior before the disease struck, this could be even more difficult. Kids who live with a grandparent that has dementia will not understand what is going on, which is why it is so important to take the time to try to explain things to younger children.
1. The best thing to do is to be honest with the child. Explain to them the grandma or grandpa is having trouble remembering things. This may help the child understand and be more willing to help.
2. Always encourage smaller children to ask questions. Try to answer them in terms they can understand. Instead of giving a medical definition of the disease, explain it in simple terms.
3. Have the child interact with the senior Helping with simple, everyday things, such as tying shoes and helping seniors eat can benefit the child as well as the senior with dementia.
4. Explain to children that there is nothing to fear. Grandma may forget things, but she can still be a joy to be around. Encourage kids to include seniors in fun time.
5. Talk to children before the senior moves in and try to explain the situation. If the child has questions, answer them as well as you can without being too complex.
Source: USA Weekend
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