A Family Affair
When my Dad became ill and his strength waned to the point he could no longer easily play with his four year old granddaughter, his greatest concern was that she would only remember him as a frail and infirmed man and not as the active and fun grandpa she had known during the first three years of her life.
Coincidentally, when my grandfather was first diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, he had similar concerns about his great-grandchildren. In both cases, they didn’t have anything to worry about since my nieces adored each of them and have fond memories they share to this date, so many years after their passing.
If you would indulge me, I have a few more thoughts on the topic:
- Never talk down to children when discussing a loved ones illness.
- Involve them as much as possible in age appropriate ways.
- Remember that they are still children and do not need to know everything.
- Make sure to spend time talking of subjects other than the illness or disease.
- Remember to allow them to play.
- Tell stories about life with their loved one before they became ill.
And one suggestion that I especially recommend...
Love them a lot
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