What should I do if I feel worried or upset?

It can feel difficult to spend time with a person who has dementia, because you don't know how they will be that day.

These things can help:

  1. If they get upset, or annoyed, remember that it’s not your fault. You could leave the room, and try again later.
  2. Say how you feel. If you see or hear something that makes you feel worried, scared, angry or upset, talk to someone about it.
  3. Ask questions. Each time you think of a question about dementia, ask for help to find the answer. You may find answers to some of your questions on this website. A parent, carer, doctor or nurse could help to answer others.
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How can I help?

You can help a person with dementia by spending time with them. You could plan something nice to do together. These are some ideas from other children.

Questions

We try to have fun and take her for days out. We try to make her laugh.

Oscar

My Grandpa sometimes gets confused with the TV, and I help him get the right channel.

Jack

To get Grandma to go in her wheelchair, me and my sister go on our scooters by her side.

Elsie

I help Grandma by going to her and asking if she needs help. I give her a cuddle.

Anna

You could go to the park together, or play their favourite music.

Imogen

Music and singing, going for walks and playing board games.

Harrison

Talk to them about their old memories.

Joshua

Talk to them about your day.

Brendon

People with dementia can still have fun. You could play a game or watch a film together.

Olivia

This information was updated in November 2019 and is due for review in November 2021. Please contact us if you would like a version with references.