How Can You Help the Children in Your Family Deal with a Loved One with Alzheimer's in the Orlando, Florida Area?

How Can You Help the Children in Your Family Deal with a Loved One with Alzheimer’s in the Orlando, Florida Area?

In Preserving Your Memory Magazine/Summer 2020, Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation, there was an informative article on Helping Kids Handle a Loved One’s Alzheimer’s Disease by Cindy Kuzma. The author states that with the right support, children can better understand and cope with a loved one’s diagnosis.

Children and Alzheimer’s Disease

The author states that making sense of a loved one’s Alzheimer’s disease can be hard on anyone. But it is essentially challenging for children. The author states that many facets of Alzheimer’s are difficult for children to comprehend. However, research shows that their understanding increases over time as they interact with the person with Alzheimer’s. In addition, children — especially young children — and teens learn from both your words and your example.

The author gives advice and tells you how to guide the children. She states to shed light on the situation, make space for emotions, concentrate on communication, keep the connection, and reflect on the positive.

Helping Your Child Understand

Clear, age appropriate language can help children grasp the concept of Alzheimer’s. Tell children it’s normal to feel sad, angry, frustrated or scared. Let them know they can still interact with someone who has Alzheimer’s, even if that person’s ability to express themselves changes. Tell the children that, if they choose, they can be a part of the caregiver team. Just like adult caregivers, younger family members can make meaning out of challenging experiences.

Potential Benefits of Learning Early

Children and teens who interact with or help provide care for someone with Alzheimer’s often learn a lot about the disease. The knowledge may help them later, since research suggests these children are more likely to say they’d care for a parent or other family member in the future. They may also absorb deeper lessons. For instance, many come away with new perspectives on overcoming obstacles or making the most of the time they are given.

The author also gives a link to more knowledge at ALZinfo.org.

If you have more questions about Elder Care Law or Guardianship Law matter, you may call Ann Marie Giordano Gilden at Ann Marie Giordano Gilden, P.A. at 407-732-7620 and set an initial consultation.

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

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