Tell them what might happen
Explain that their loved one might repeat a question, forget a name or get mixed up about something. Let them know that this can happen because of dementia.
The Books on Grandpa's Shelf
Helping Children Understand Dementia
A story for families and schools, created by Hartwood House Care Home’s Dementia Coaches to help children understand dementia and stay connected with someone they love.
Through the story of Lily and her Grandpa, the book helps families talk about memory, change and what dementia can mean for someone they love.
How The Books on Grandpa’s Shelf Came to Be
Talking to children about dementia is not always easy. They may notice that someone they love repeats themselves, forgets a name or seems different. Finding the right words to explain those changes can be difficult too. The Books on Grandpa’s Shelf was created by Hartwood House’s Dementia Coaches, Thea, Alfie and Colin, to help families have those conversations.
In the story, memories are imagined as books on a giant shelf. Sometimes Grandpa finds the memory he is looking for straight away. Sometimes it takes a little longer. And sometimes he finds the wrong one. It gives children a simple way to understand some of the changes dementia can bring, without losing sight of the person they know and love.
Get Your Free Copy
Printed copies of The Books on Grandpa’s Shelf are available from Cinnamon Care Collection homes. Find your nearest home and get in touch if you would like to collect a free copy.
Prefer a digital copy?
You can also download a free digital copy to read at home or share with your family.
A visit can sometimes feel a bit different for a child if someone they love is living with dementia. They may notice changes they do not understand, or feel unsure about what to say or do. A little preparation can make the visit feel more familiar.
Visiting Someone Living with Dementia
Give them something to do together
Children often find it easier to connect when there is something to share. They could bring a drawing, look through photographs, read a book, listen to music or do a simple activity together.
Let the conversation flow
If a name or detail gets mixed up, it does not always need to be corrected. Keeping things relaxed can help the child enjoy the time they are spending together.
Reassure them afterwards
If the visit felt different or brought up questions, give them space to talk about it afterwards. It can help to remind them that although dementia may change some of the things their loved one says, remembers or does, their relationship with that person can still be important.
Endorsed by Cinnamon Brand Ambassador & dementia advocate Louis Alexander
Meet Louis Alexander, Cinnamon Care Collection’s Brand Ambassador, record-breaking British adventurer and passionate dementia advocate. A three-time Guinness World Records™ title holder, Louis is proudly endorsing The Book on Grandpa’s Shelf, a heartwarming story that helps families explore memories, connection and the impact of dementia.
Louis has built a reputation for pushing the limits of human endurance through extraordinary challenges, including his latest achievement of completing a marathon distance in all eight Australian state and territorial capitals in under seven days, all in aid of dementia research.
Every Chapter Still Matters
Even when some memories become harder to find, there are still moments to enjoy and new ones to make. It is one of the main messages behind The Books on Grandpa’s Shelf.
If the story could help your family, you can read the online flipbook, download a PDF copy or pick up a printed copy from your nearest Cinnamon Care Collection home.
