Two picture books help young grandchildren understand Lewy body dementia and its hallucinations. Lewy body dementia is a brain disorder where protein clumps called Lewy bodies change thinking, movement, and vision. Families can read the stories before visits and revisit pages after hard moments. The books keep fear low and give simple words for seeing things that are not there.
Medical information disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes only and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a physician or other qualified health professional about symptoms, medications, tests, or treatment decisions.
Table of Contents
- What your grandchild will notice
- Two books written for Lewy body dementia
- How to explain hallucinations calmly
- What to do during visits
- Why you may need a second book
What your grandchild will notice
Your grandchild may hear Grandpa talk to a child who is not in the room. The U.S. National Institute on Aging booklet describes this symptom in this family guide to Lewy body dementia. It reports visual hallucinations occur in up to 80% of people with the disease, often early.
The images are often realistic and detailed, such as animals or small children. The Lewy Body Dementia Resource Center says these visions can seem completely real to the person. Your grandchild may feel confused or scared when correction upsets Grandpa. Calm acceptance works better than argument.
Two books written for Lewy body dementia
The Lewy Body Society publishes "What are Lewy bodies?" by Alex Winstanley for ages 5–11. The Society presents it in this Lewy Body Society announcement as a fun, accessible way to help younger generations understand the disease. Use it to introduce protein clumps called Lewy bodies in simple terms.
"Grandpa & Lewy" by Jennifer Randazzo, illustrated by Tracey Arvidson, appeared Sept. 15, 2021. The publisher listing in this publisher listing for Grandpa and Lewy describes physical and mental changes in a non-frightening, encouraging way. Randazzo wrote after her father's 2003 diagnosis, when her own young children struggled with his decline, according to Being Patient.
How to explain hallucinations calmly
Call it a brain disorder in plain language. Federal family guidance from the National Institute on Aging advises this phrasing for children. It avoids blame and invites questions.
Review these steps together before the next visit. Practice the plan before visits. Short rehearsal helps children respond with calm words instead of freezing.
- Name what happened in simple words.
- Say the image feels real to Grandpa but others do not see it.
- Stay kind and do not argue about what is real.
- Tell a parent if the visit feels scary.
What to do during visits
Keep sports, hobbies, and school routines going. Federal guidance also encourages normal activities alongside caregiving. Stability tells the child the family rhythm still holds.
Use structured play to connect. Bring drawing supplies, photo albums, or simple music. Sit beside Grandpa for short, timed activities rather than long talks. End with a clear goodbye ritual.
Why you may need a second book
Only a few picture books focus on Lewy body dementia. The Dementia UK children's-books list notes families often supplement with general-dementia titles. Those titles rarely explain Lewy-specific hallucinations, fluctuations, or medication sensitivity.
Borrow a general title for grief or caregiving themes. Rely on the two Lewy-specific books for hallucinations. Ask a librarian for a calm, age-matched companion about memory loss.
