When a loved one displays symptoms of dementia, children are at a loss as to how to relate to them. In many instances they feel confused, afraid, and at times, even guilty, as they try to reconcile this changed person with the grandparent they knew and loved.
A parent must step in to help a child learn how to cope with the new reality. The Alzheimer’s Society and Alzheimer’s Association provide some tips that serve as helpful guidelines.
• Have a conversation with your child before you pay a visit to a memory impaired loved one, prepping him/her to the changes he/she will see.
• Ensure your visit has a time limit and is not open-ended. Both young children and seniors get tired, and there is only so much they can handle.
• Participate in an activity together that all will enjoy. Play a game, read a story, look at family albums etc.
• Have the child play an active role in caregiving, by participating in a task they can handle, such as bringing a glass of water or reading the newspaper aloud
• Make sure your child remains in his/her comfort  zone and don’t leave him/her alone during the visit.
• Follow up with your child after the visit to see if they have any questions or to address their concerns.
At The Regency Assisted Living in Glen Cove, we value family visits and ensure that the environment for children and grandchildren is comfortable and accommodating in every way. Our Recreation department is delighted to have visitors participate in planned activities and we can prepare some special kid-friendly activities upon request. For more information about assisted living services we provide, contact Stella at 516-674-3007 or stella@theregencyatglencove.com.