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How do you explain dementia to a child? More importantly, how do you help them continue building a meaningful relationship with someone they love?

In this episode of Comforting Closure - Conversations with a Death Doula, host Traci Arieli is joined by author and actor Evan Bass Zeisel to discuss his children's book, How to Play with a Grandma. Together, they explore practical ways families can help children stay connected with grandparents and other loved ones living with dementia.

Drawing on his background in improv, interactive theater, and dementia care, Evan shares why he believes personality persists despite dementia, how small changes in communication can reduce fear and frustration, and why play, curiosity, and emotional connection are often more powerful than memory.

Whether you're caring for a parent, supporting a grandparent, raising children, or working in healthcare, hospice, senior living, or dementia care, this conversation offers a hopeful perspective on maintaining relationships through every stage of dementia.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How to talk with children about dementia in an honest, age-appropriate way

• Why emotional connection often lasts longer than memory

• Simple communication techniques that can improve interactions with someone living with dementia

• How improv and interactive theater can help dementia care

• Why meeting people where they are can transform relationships

If you've ever wondered how to preserve connection after a dementia diagnosis, this conversation offers practical guidance, encouragement, and hope.

Links/Resources

Evan Bass Zeisel - https://www.evanbass.com

Book: How to Play with a Grandma - https://www.howtoplaywithagrandma.com

How You Are to Me, Dementia Communication Training - https://howyouaretome.com

Host: Traci Arieli - https://www.comfortingclosure.com

If you found this conversation helpful, please like, share, comment, and subscribe. Your support helps more families, caregivers, and professionals discover practical conversations about aging, dementia, grief, and end-of-life care.