Caring for an aging parent often becomes a family affair but one group that’s sometimes left out of the conversation is the grandchildren. While their involvement might look different depending on age and maturity, including younger generations in the senior care journey can be both meaningful and beneficial for everyone involved.
At Senior Living Specialists Fort Worth, we’ve seen how multigenerational support can ease transitions into assisted living, strengthen family bonds, and help seniors feel deeply loved. Whether your family is based in Fort Worth or nearby Frisco, here are some ways to involve grandchildren in a positive way.
Start the Conversation Early
It’s important to explain to children why changes are happening — especially if a grandparent is moving into assisted living or experiencing health decline. Keep it simple and honest. For younger children, use familiar terms like “Grandma needs some extra help now” or “We’re helping Grandpa find a new home where people can take good care of him.”
Teens and young adults can handle more detailed conversations and may even have helpful input or questions you hadn’t considered.
Give Them a Role in the Process
Depending on their age and comfort level, grandchildren can be part of the care journey in several ways:
- Younger children can help pack or decorate a grandparent’s new living space with handmade artwork or family photos.
- Teens can assist with technology — setting up phones, teaching how to use FaceTime or apps, or creating digital photo albums.
- College-aged grandchildren may want to visit local communities in Fort Worth or Frisco and share impressions with the family.
By giving them a role, you help normalize aging and caregiving as part of family life.
Create Ongoing Opportunities for Connection
Staying connected after a move to assisted living or memory care is essential. Some ideas to maintain bonds between grandchildren and grandparents include:
- Weekly video chats or phone calls
- Shared journaling or exchanging letters
- Craft projects they can do together during visits
- Playing games or working on puzzles during in-person time
Many senior living communities in the Fort Worth area, particularly in neighborhoods like Tanglewood, Westover Hills, and Mira Vista, offer family events and intergenerational activities that make it easy to include kids of all ages.
Help Them Cope with Emotional Changes
Seeing a loved one experience cognitive decline or physical limitations can be confusing for grandchildren. Be open to their feelings and encourage questions. Books, support groups, or school counselors can be helpful tools, especially if the family is adjusting to a memory care diagnosis like Alzheimer’s.
A Family-Centered Approach to Senior Care
When children and teens are included in the care journey, they not only strengthen their bond with their grandparents.
At Senior Living Specialists Fort Worth, we help families find senior living communities that welcome loved ones of all ages and encourage multigenerational connection. If you’re ready to explore options for your aging parent or grandparent, contact us today. Our expert guidance is always free to families.