Understanding Dementia: An Interactive Activity Book by Mindy Crouch

June 25, 2024

By Mindy Crouch, Nebraska, USA

Having had three out of my four grandparents live with my family at different times due to aging and disease, I witnessed firsthand the challenges and complexities of caregiving. Two of my grandparents battled various forms of dementia, which deeply impacted our family dynamics. I observed how they navigated aging, how their spouses provided care, and the strain it placed on my parents as they balanced caring for their parents and raising their own children. These experiences shaped my perspective profoundly. This experience inspired me to pursue my career helping geriatrics and their families.

With a Master’s in Social Work, licensure as a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) and certificates in geriatrics, dementia and grief, I bring over 15 years of expertise in serving seniors within senior living communities. As the founder and owner of Pando Geriatric Counseling, P.C., I am dedicated to providing compassionate care and support to older adults and their families.

I wrote Understanding Dementia because children are always watching, absorbing the nuances of familial relationships. Despite the prevailing notion that dementia only affects the elders, its impact reverberates throughout the entire family unit. Recognizing that children are keen observers, listeners, and participants in these interactions, I crafted this book to empower them with the knowledge and skills to better navigate their relationships with loved ones affected by dementia. The skills learned in this book can be lifelong tools used in other life stressors.

I aim to dispel misconceptions surrounding dementia, ensuring children understand that it’s not contagious and that their loved ones aren’t scary. It’s tailored for independent exploration by children aged 8 and up, with provisions for younger children requiring adult guidance.

My goal for this book is to foster love and empathy toward our loved ones while fostering a healthy aversion toward dementia itself. I aim to separate the person from the disease, providing encouragement and practical skills to help children navigate tough times as they grow up. Reflecting on my own childhood, I recognize the value this resource would have brought to my family.
As a therapist, I understand the limitations of clinical and technical literature in this field. This book fills a crucial gap by offering accessible insights into dementia’s impact across generations, without the technical jargon. It serves as a tool for facilitating honest conversations and collaborative caregiving efforts tailored to each family’s unique needs and experiences.

Purchase Understanding Dementia

About the Author

Mindy Crouch is a dedicated wife and mother of two, balancing family life with her passion for helping others. With a career spanning nearly two decades, she has flourished as a social worker since 2005. Mindy’s commitment to geriatric care led her to establish Pando Geriatric Counseling, P.C. in 2011, where she serves as founder and owner, providing essential support to elders and their families. Currently, Mindy channels her expertise into a forthcoming book titled “Understanding Grief,” aiming to illuminate the complexities of this universal experience. Beyond her professional pursuits, Mindy finds solace in spending quality time with her loved ones, staying active with her children, cherishing family moments, and indulging in the enriching world of literature, being with her animals, and volunteering her time to public speaking and advocating for the elder community. Her multifaceted life reflects a harmonious blend of compassion, expertise, and a profound appreciation for the simple joys of life.

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Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/3IsZYML