Dementia Caregiving Guide for Kids & Teens

When a family gets a diagnosis of a dementia causing disease, it's normal to want to shield kids and even teens from the news. However, with the right support, they can be an invaluable supportive caregiver to their loved one. Here are some tips on how to help them navigate that role. Open Communication: Talk Honestly: Explain dementia in an age-appropriate way. Address their fears and frustrations openly. Listen Actively: Validate their feelings. Let them know it's okay to feel sad, angry, or confused. Supportive Caregiving: Find Age-Appropriate Tasks: Let them help with simple tasks like setting reminders or engaging in familiar activities with their loved one. Focus on Strengths: Highlight their unique ability to connect with their loved one through shared interests or hobbies. Maintaining Balance: Set Boundaries: Acknowledge their need for social time and hobbies. Schedule respite care or involve other family members. Support Groups: Connect them with online or in-person groups for young caregivers. They'll find others facing similar situations. By involving them in care while respecting their needs, teens can be amazing caregivers while still chasing their dreams. Our Guest: Alex Schumacher Alex was a tween when his family learned his grandmother had Alzheimer's. As an adult, he is now the author of the graphic novel "The Effects of Pickled Herring". This novel is a warm and funny, coming of age story. It's a story that reminds s that life pulls us in many directions yet the one thing that can ground us is the ones we love. Grab the book here! ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Intro00:22 - The Pickled Herring05:24 - Alex's Caregiving Experience10:00 - You Need Your Grandma12:44 - Talking to Kids about Alzheimer's18:39 - Education and Training for Caregivers22:58 - Caregiver Advice for Families27:58 - Encouraging Kids to Share Joys31:05 - Kids' Impact on Dementia Care34:43 - Importance of Communication38:57 - Adult Day Programs for Families45:55 - Sequel ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Related Episodes: Kids as Alzheimer’s Caregivers My Grandma Has Dementia – Helping Kids Understand ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Sign Up for more Advice & Wisdom - email newsletter. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Please help us keep our show going by supporting our sponsors. Thank you. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Feeling overwhelmed? HelpTexts can be your pocket therapist. Going through a tough time? HelpTexts offers confidential support delivered straight to your phone via text message. Whether you're dealing with grief, caregiving stress, or just need a mental health boost, their expert-guided texts provide personalized tips and advice. Sign up for a year of support and get: Daily or twice-weekly texts tailored to your situation Actionable strategies to cope and move forward Support for those who care about you (optional) HelpTexts makes getting help easy and convenient. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Make Your Brain Span Match Your LifeSpan Relevate from NeuroReserve I've been focusing a lot on taking care of my brain health, & I've found this supplement called RELEVATE to be incredibly helpful. It provides me with 17 nutrients that support brain function & help keep me sharp. Since you're someone I care about, I wanted to share this discovery with you. You can order it with my code: FM15 & get 15% OFF your order. With Relevate nutritional supplement, you get science-backed nutrition to help protect your brain power today and for years to come. You deserve a brain span that lasts as long as your lifespan. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Join Fading Memories On Social Media! If you've enjoyed this episode, please share this podcast with other caregivers!