Although Grandma may love being around younger people, she may have an illness or hearing loss that makes it difficult to keep up with the conversation and activities. Everything that Grandma does now takes more effort and may take a toll on patience. The high spirits of youth can be exhilarating but also fatiguing. Plan for breaks when children have activities away from the house, and make sure that the older person has opportunity for normal rest. Be positive about what the grandparent will enjoy.
Photo albums can encourage spontaneous conversations between children and grandparents.
Emphasize the importance of teens spending time with the older person while parents take care of household tasks, or vice versa. Music often brings people together. Often people who have lost much of their memory still can sing old familiar songs. Baking projects also can involve several family members. An adult or older child can mix cookies, while younger children and older adults can cut and decorate.