Frisco, TX, Sep.23, 2017 – When a loved one is diagnosed with a memory disorder, family members have a right to know. Telling adult children can be difficult enough, but explaining the situation and what to expect to younger children can be especially hard. While the conversation is one no parent ever wishes to have with a child, there are tips that can help ease the emotions, angst and confusion that may result.

“Breaking the news that a beloved grandparent is living with a memory disorder can be traumatic,” says Trent Quinn, founder, president and CEO of The Cottages. “Doing so, however, is important to prepare children of any age for changes in their loved one they are likely to witness as time passes. It can also help ensure children remain active participants in their loved one’s lives, which can be tremendously beneficial for everyone, including the person living with the memory disorder.”

While word choice, level of explanation and details shared may vary based on the age of the child, these tips can help parents broach the topic:

· Share the news as early as possible – Explaining the basics of what is happening to a family member sooner rather than later is strongly advised. Keep in mind that even younger, school-age children are very intuitive. Chances are they have noticed changes in their loved one. A brief, but honest explanation can help them cope more effectively if symptoms are impacting a loved one’s behaviors.

· Try to avoid emotions – A diagnosis of a memory disorder is traumatic for not only the loved one, but the entire family. To help children more readily process the news, try to keep personal emotions in check. Instead, talk about the symptoms that have or are likely to appear and strategies for coping with them.

· Keep it positive – An early stage diagnosis generally means a loved one will remain capable of doing and enjoying many things for some time. Focus on that positive and encourage children to maintain strong connections with their loved one. Doing so can help children cope while providing them with memories they can cherish for a lifetime.

For more information about The Cottages and the services it provides, visit it online at Alzcottages.com.

About The Cottages

The Cottages is dedicated to care for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory disorders. The Cottage concept provides a home-like environment tailored to meet individual needs based on physical, mental and emotional needs. The Cottages offers all-inclusive pricing with no level of care charges and all care and services are included. The Cottages currently has locations in Frisco, Round Rock, League City and Amarillo, Texas. The Cottages has been operating in Texas since 1997 and is family owned and operated by The Cottages Senior Living.

Learn more about Alzheimer’s disease and The Cottages difference at www.alzcottages.com