Helping children understand dementia

PARTICIPANTS at last week’s Dementia Alliance Carer’s Lunch and students at Axedale Primary School were treated to a special story about Tom, an eight-year-old boy learning to understand his grandmother’s dementia.

Japanese academic and author Naoko Suzuki has been sharing the story with carers and local school students during her recent visit to the area.

Ms Suzuki, associate Professor at the Center for Community Engagement and Lifelong Learning at Tokushima University in Japan, wrote the story.

“Naoko asked if the story could be shared with our carer’s group and some students,” said Dementia Alliance president Sandra Slatter.

“She is seeking feedback on the English translation undertaken by Dementia Alliance, ahead of exploring publication in Australia.

“Marg Rae, one of our Dementia Alliance carers, read the story to the carer’s group.

“Participants responded warmly, particularly about the thoughtful way it helps children understand dementia and the gentle message about patience, kindness and the important role children can play in supporting family members experiencing memory loss.”

Following the Carer’s Lunch, Ms Suzuki and Ms Slatter visited Axedale Primary School, where principal Corrina Hartland read the story to a group of students.

“We wanted to observe how children would respond to the story and its themes,” said Ms Slatter. The session sparked lively discussion, with students sharing their thoughts about what might be happening to Tom’s grandmother.

“They also offered ideas about how to help older people who may feel confused or forgetful. Several students shared that they already had grandparents living with dementia.”

Ms Hartland said the book was a gentle and effective way of introducing dementia awareness to students.

“Dementia Alliance looks forward to continuing discussions with Naoko about how the book might be collaboratively published in Australia. We believe it will help more children and families better understand dementia. Stories like Tom’s help open conversations across generations, reminding families that understanding dementia can begin with the simple kindness and curiosity of a child.”