Sharing Info on Alzheimer’s Disease with Children

Alzheimer’s disease usually afflicts those over the age of 65, but it affects everyone in the family. Much has been written about helping the caregivers to cope with the overwhelming task of managing someone with Alzheimer’s, but what about the children who might be affected by what is happening to a beloved adult in their family? What concerns are specifically important to young people and how can Alzheimer’s be explained to them in a way that makes sense and alleviates their anxiety? Watching someone deteriorate with Alzheimer’s is frightening for adults – but how can a child possibly understand the strange behavior they are seeing? This article is designed to help you anticipate what your child is going through and offer the support they need.

Children’s Questions

Children often ask the very things adults are thinking, but in simplified form. A child might ask you, “Is Grandpa crazy?” You can tell your child that Grandpa has a disease that is making him act differently than he used to. Or a child might feel that a trusted grandparent doesn’t love them anymore, especially if that person is exhibiting aggressive or violent behavior that leads the child to feel attacked or rejected.

Just like divorce, children can easily feel that somehow the problem with Grandma is their fault – this is especially true if Grandma suddenly accuses the child of stealing from her. You can offer info on Alzheimer’s disease that lets the child know that he or she is definitely not to blame in these situations.

A child might feel that Alzheimer’s disease is contagious, and they might worry that they could catch it. There is a small grain of truth here, since info on Alzheimer’s disease does indicate that there is a genetic connection. However, you can reassure your child that it is not catching like the cold or flu. A child might also worry that you as his parent might get the disease and suddenly not be available to him. Again, you can offer reassurance that not everyone gets Alzheimer’s.

How Can Children Help?

Providing your child with accurate info on Alzheimer’s disease will help boost his or her understanding. You can suggest ways that your child can interact with their family member. By spending time doing simple activities with the Alzheimer’s patient, both the child and their loved one will benefit. Listening to music together, or looking through photo albums can be an enriching experience for everyone. You can explain to your child that their presence and kindness can even prolong the life of their family member. Children can play a valuable role in the quality of life of a person with Alzheimer’s.