Talking to children about dementia can be a daunting task. While well-intentioned, leaving children out of conversations about a loved one’s memory impairment diagnosis can complicate the situation. But if they understand what is happening, we can avoid hurt feelings and frustration on both sides. The information should always be honest, but age appropriate. We’ve gathered a few books that may be helpful for families who are on this journey together.

The Memory Box by Mary Bahr

Amazon Review: “This book is a jewel, because it focuses your mind on the good memories that we have experienced with our loved ones. An excellent opportunity for children to remember and keep in their hearts the special times they remember. So important to focus on the good and not the bad.

What’s Happening To Grandpa? by Maria Shriver

Amazon Review: “This book changed my perspective on all my friends and family – to be determined to enjoy the person who is, not to be disappointed because they aren’t who I want them to be.”

Always My Grandpa by Linda Scacco, Ph.D.

Amazon Review: “Ideal for parents to read to children facing Alzheimer’s changes in grandparents and other loved elders. The setting creates calm and familiarity, producing an atmosphere of realism, explanation, and acceptance. The sensitivity of a practicing psychologist combined with the experience of a mom informs this gem of a story.”

Why Did Grandma Put Her Underwear In the Refrigerator? By Max Wallack & Carolyn Given

Amazon review: “The author does a wonderful job capturing the complexities of family life that includes Alzheimer’s disease. He discusses the changing roles of family members, losses children may experience, and pays special attention to the value to a child remaining involved with someone who has Alzheimer’s.”

Still My Grandma by Veronique Van den Abeele

Amazon Review: “My daughter’s school librarian sent this book home when I asked for a book to help my daughter understand the permanence of this condition. The book was wonderful – we were able to laugh (grandma puts her shoes in the fridge) and even when the grandma moved to a nursing home, the story was not scary. The focus was on loving grandma just the way she was and helping grandma feel loved, even if she didn’t remember.”