Talking to Kids about Alzheimer’s and Dementia


Talking to Kids about Alzheimer’s and Dementia

Alzheimer’s is a disease that impacts the entire family, including children and teens. When a loved one is diagnosed, young people might have questions about what is happening. It's essential to address these questions openly and honestly and share with them the changes the disease might bring, both now and in the future.

For parents, knowing when and how to talk to children about a loved one’s diagnosis of Alzheimer's or dementia can be challenging. To help navigate these conversations, the Alzheimer’s Association offers tips and resources on how to talk to children about Alzheimer’s and dementia, including:

1.    Be open and honest. When a friend or family member has Alzheimer’s, children may feel upset, confused, or scared. It’s crucial to be honest and clear with them about what’s happening. If possible, include the person diagnosed in these conversations. This inclusion can help demystify the disease and foster a sense of involvement and understanding.

2.    Learn about the disease. Educating children and teens about Alzheimer’s and dementia can help them understand what to expect and how to connect with the person they care about. The Alzheimer’s Association offers a Parent's Guide: Helping Children and Teens Understand Alzheimer's Disease (https://bit.ly/3YkDV4e), which includes commonly asked questions and sample answers. This resource can be an excellent starting point for parents and caregivers to address the concerns of young people thoughtfully and accurately.

3.    Activities for connection: Spending time with a family member or friend with Alzheimer’s can be meaningful and enjoyable. Take your cue from the person with Alzheimer's—What do they like to do? What are they able to do? What are they in the mood for today? The Alzheimer’s Association offers a list of activity ideas (https://bit.ly/3YkZ7Hg) that can help maintain a bond and create positive experiences. These activities can range from simple games to reminiscing about old photos, providing a way to stay connected and engaged.

4.    Resources are available: The Alzheimer’s Association Kids and Teens (https://www.alz.org/help-support/resources/kids-teens)section provides valuable information to help young people learn more about Alzheimer's disease and how it affects the people they love. This section includes book selections, helpful resource links, and videos tailored to younger audiences. These resources can provide comfort and understanding, making the disease less intimidating.

Approximately one-quarter of the more than 11 million dementia caregivers are “sandwich generation” caregivers—those who care not only for an aging parent but also for children under age 18. This dual responsibility can be particularly taxing, making it even more critical to have open lines of communication within the family. By addressing the needs and questions of children and teens, caregivers can create a supportive environment that acknowledges everyone's emotions and fosters resilience.

Alzheimer’s disease affects the entire family, and it’s essential to include children and teens in the conversation. By being open, honest, and informed, and by engaging in meaningful activities, families can navigate the challenges of Alzheimer’s together. The Alzheimer’s Association offers a wealth of resources to support families through this journey, ensuring that no one has to face it alone.

Contact: Lionell Martin, Public Relations Manager, Alzheimer’s Association, lrmartin@alz.org, 773.593. 4211

About the Alzheimer’s Association®: The Alzheimer's Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s®. Visit alz.org or call 800.272-3900.


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