Explaining dementia to young children in the family can feel challenging, but it’s important to approach the conversation with kindness, simplicity, and honesty. Children notice when someone they love starts acting differently or forgetting things, even if they don’t understand why. Giving them clear and gentle explanations helps reduce confusion and worry.
Start by describing dementia as a condition that affects a person’s brain. You might say something like: “Grandma’s brain is having trouble remembering things and sometimes she might forget who you are or what she was doing.” Keep it simple and avoid medical jargon. Emphasize that this isn’t anyone’s fault—neither the person with dementia nor the child—and that it happens because of changes inside the brain.
Children often worry that they caused these changes or did something wrong when their loved one behaves differently. It’s helpful to reassure them clearly: “It’s not because of anything you did; Grandma just has an illness in her brain.” This reassurance can ease feelings of guilt or anxiety.
Using stories or children’s books designed for explaining dementia can be very effective. These resources tell heartwarming tales about people experiencing different types of dementia in ways kids can relate to, helping them understand without feeling scared. They also encourage empathy by showing how families stay connected through love even when memories fade.
Invite questions from children and answer honestly but gently according to their age level. Let them know it is okay to feel sad, confused, or even angry sometimes—that these feelings are normal when someone close has dementia.
Encourage children to express themselves creatively through drawing, writing stories, music, or play acting what they feel inside. This helps process emotions in a safe way.
Finally, keep communication open over time as the situation changes so children don’t feel left out or alone with their worries. Involving teachers or school counselors can provide extra support if needed.
By talking openly with warmth and patience about what dementia means for your family member—and how everyone still cares deeply—you help young children build understanding rooted in empathy rather than fear or misunderstanding.
