New book ‘Feathers in my Brain’ teaches children about dementia

There is no easy way of explaining dementia to a child, but there is a very useful aid in the shape of a new book designed to address the fear children can feel when that special connection with Granny or Grandad is under threat.

Feathers in My Brain is a creation of the Crystal Project, a ground-breaking community-based dementia service, led by occupational therapists in HSE North Cork.

It’s the story of Aoife and her gorgeously warm relationship with Granny, until Granny’s behaviour begins to change. What had been fun-filled, rule-free visits to her grandmother’s house become occasions of fear and anxiety as Granny repeatedly asks the same questions, or forgets to make dinner, or puts her tablets in the freezer.