Read story D12: Why is Grandad talking like that? (image and text)
Why is Grandad talking like that?
Aleena wants to visit her grandad while he has delirium. Her mother explains beforehand that illness is affecting his thinking and stays beside her during the visit.
Check visiting arrangements with staff and consider what the child wants. Use simple, truthful explanations, allow questions and keep visits manageable. Let the child leave if they wish. Explain that the illness is not their fault. Recovery differs between people; this example shows one grandparent improving and returning home.
Story text
Panel 1. Aleena, aged nine, wants to visit her grandad in hospital.
Panel 2.
- Sana: Grandad has an illness called delirium. He might say muddled things.
Panel 3.
- Yusuf: Aleena! Have you fed the chickens?
- Aleena: We don't have chickens…
Panel 4. Aleena goes still and holds her mother's hand.
Panel 5.
- Sana: An infection is making Grandad's thinking muddled. He still loves you.
Panel 6.
- Aleena: Will he get better?
- Sana: The doctors think so. It can take a while.
Panel 7. Aleena gives Grandad her drawing.
- Yusuf: That is beautiful, my darling.
Panel 8. Two weeks later, at home.
- Yusuf: Your drawing is on my fridge.
Bottom band. Children can visit someone with delirium. Explain simply first, and stay close.