Helping Children to Understand Grandpa's Alzheimer's

The guilt that children may feel as a result of their family member’s condition could potentially increase if not addressed as they grow up, as a result of a combination of their lack of understanding, paired with their helplessness to do anything about it. This is why actively involving children in the care of the patients is often a positive method to increase both their understanding of Alzheimer’s, as well as making them feel better since they are working to improve grandpa’s condition.

If the child has a hobby like playing an instrument, they could opt to play their music for their grandpa when visiting him in the nursing home, which could stave off the awkwardness of trying to have a coherent conversation with him. Music is soothing for many Alzheimer’s patients, and even though they might not understand the words coming out of someone’s mouth, they can appreciate the significance behind their musical notes and will be able to enjoy a pleasing afternoon with his loved ones.