How do I navigate changes in my relationships?

If you or someone close to you receives a dementia diagnosis, your relationship with that person may change, either by choice or necessity.

Our National Dementia Helpline Advisors provide advice on how to navigate two of the most common questions they receive about relationships.

How do I tell my child that their grandparent is living with dementia?

When a loved one is living with dementia, it can be hard for everyone in the family, but particularly challenging for children to understand the changes that come with the condition. 

The most important way to help young people understand dementia is to talk openly and be willing to listen. They need to be able to ask questions and express their feelings in a free manner. 

Don’t be surprised if they do not initiate discussion. Watch for clues in their behaviour that something is on their mind and then try to talk openly. They may prefer to talk to people their own age or even to a counsellor.

Children can still have wonderful relationships with a grandparent living with dementia.

My siblings and I can’t agree on when our Mum should move into residential aged care. What should we do?

It is normal and natural for families to experience conflict as they help care for someone they love.

The question of whether it’s time to move a parent into residential aged care is a tough one and you may experience feelings of guilt, burnout or failure.

There’s no right or wrong decision – and what’s right for one family, may be different for another.

There are a range of options to help you and your family choose the best care option and to help you navigate this difficult time.

Talking to one of our National Dementia Helpline Advisors is a good place to start.

Looking for support?

If you have any questions or want to talk through what you are experiencing, please contact the National Dementia Helpline.

Call 1800 100 500, or visit the Helpline on our website for web chat and email options.

The National Dementia Helpline operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.