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Dealing with an Alzheimer’s Diagnosis in the Orlando Florida Area 

How do you discuss an Alzheimer’s Diagnosis with your family? It can be hard to handle such a diagnosis.  Some days your loved ones will have good days. However, all Alzheimer’s patients eventually change in ways that are upsetting for children, grandchildren, and their spouse. If the loved one lives in your home, your family may experience disruptions in their lives. 

Tell your children that when Grandma forgets your name or how to play a game, that is because of Alzheimer’s. Offer reassurances to young children. Tell them that nothing they did caused 

Grandma to get sick; and that it is not contagious. 

A person with Alzheimer’s often appears the same but acts very differently. This can be confusing to the people around them. The Mayo Clinic suggests saying that older adults sometimes get an illness that causes them to act differently and to forget things. They might look the same, but their brain is changing on the inside. 

Tell the children that even if their grandparent’s mind is not working, they can still feel love. Tell them that it is normal to feel sad, angry and frustrated. Encourage the children to be patient if Grandma or Grandpa repeats the same questions. Show kids that they can still talk with the person with Alzheimer’s Disease and help him/her enjoy activities. Doing fun things together can help both the child and person with Alzheimer’s. They can do simple crafts, listen to music, look at photos, and the child can read aloud to the person. These are all positive ways to stay connected. They can also participate in an Alzheimer’s walk. 

If you will be the primary caregiver of the family, explain to your children that you will be juggling many responsibilities. Let them know that you may need to have family or friends help them with homework and rides. Tell them that you will still be there for them when it matters most. 

Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease. Your loved ones will be moving into new stages. Tell your children what to expect. There are many books, articles, and web sites specifically for kids and parents.  One book is Why Can’t Grandma Remember My Name? It is available at ALZinfo.org/book. The National Institute of Aging also offers a comprehensive list of resources to support you and your children. The site is nia.nih.gov/health/resources-children-and-teens – about-Alzheimer’s-disease. 

If you have more questions regarding a Guardianship matter, you may call Ann Marie Giordano Gilden at Ann Marie Giordano Gilden, P.A. at 407-732-7620 and set an initial consultation. You may also visit my website at: https//:www.AnnMarieGildenLaw.com

This article is for informational purposes only; and it does not form an attorney client privilege.