Anticipate your child's questions

When your child asks questions, respond with simple, honest answers. For example:

• What's wrong with grandma? Explain that Alzheimer's is a disease. Just as children can get sick, older adults sometimes get an illness that causes them to act differently and to forget things. They might look the same on the outside, but their brains are changing on the inside.
• Doesn't grandpa love me anymore? Your child might feel rejected if the person who has Alzheimer's disease no longer recognizes him or her. Remind your child that the disease makes it hard to remember things — but that the person can still feel your child's love.
• Is it my fault? If the person who has Alzheimer's accuses your child of some wrongdoing — such as misplacing keys — your child might get upset. Explain to your child that the person with Alzheimer's is confused. You might explain that it's best not to correct this person because it could make the person upset or frustrated.
• Will other family members get Alzheimer's? Reassure your child that Alzheimer's disease isn't contagious. You might explain to an older child that just because a relative has Alzheimer's, it doesn't mean that every family member will get the disease.
• What will happen next? If you'll be caring for the person who has Alzheimer's in your home, talk to your child about changes in your family's routine. Explain to your child that the person will have good days and bad days.

If your child has trouble talking about the situation or withdraws from the person with Alzheimer's, open a conversation. Ask what changes your child has noticed in the person. This might lead to a talk about your child's feelings and worries. Tell your child it's OK to feel nervous, sad or angry. You might tell your child if you feel that way sometimes too. To boost your child's understanding of Alzheimer's, seek out age-appropriate websites, books or videos on the disease.