A heartwarming friendship has formed between a grandfather suffering with Alzheimer's, and a little boy.

Doug Cheek, 76, and Royal, four, both from Los Angeles, are inseparable, with the youngster dubbing the grandfather-of-two his 'best friend'.

They first met two years ago when Royal's mother Laura Luna, 42, started working as Doug's caretaker.

The mother-of-three struggled to find childcare one day and so brought her then toddler along and instantly noticed the 'chemistry' between the two.

Doug Cheek, 76, and Royal, four, both from Los Angeles, have formed a heartwarming friendship with one another (pictured together)

The pair (pictured playing Dominoes) are inseparable with the youngster dubbing the grandfather-of-two his 'best friend'

Doug's wife Tay, 76, also noticed the connection between the duo and asked Laura to bring Royal to all her shifts.

Laura said: 'I was called to Doug's home one day as there was an emergency so I had to bring Royal.

'At first I was worried about what Doug and Tay might say as I had just started the job and didn't want to seem unprofessional. But they just gravitated towards each other and had instant chemistry, it was so nice to see.

'I think having someone young around has helped Doug as it gives him a sense of responsibility and he loves teaching Royal new things and reading him books.

They first met two years ago when Royal's mother Laura Luna (pictured centre with the pair), 42, started working as Doug's caretaker

The mother-of-three struggled to find childcare one day and so brought her then toddler along and instantly noticed the 'chemistry' between the two (pictured)

Doug's wife Tay, 76, also noticed the connection between the duo and asked Laura to bring Royal to all her shifts. Pictured: The duo enjoying play dates together during Laura's work days

She added: 'Tay asked if I could bring Royal again as she noticed Doug was much happier than usual so I agreed as Royal hasn't got any grandparents who live nearby so it would be nice for him to have a grandfather figure.

'It has been really sweet to watch their friendship unfold, they almost speak their own language and have a secret handshake.

'When organising Royal's fourth birthday party, the first friend he wanted to invite was Doug, they really are best buds.

'They love going to the beach, playing a memory card game and reading which helps keep Doug's brain stimulated.'

'When organising Royal's fourth birthday party, the first friend he wanted to invite was Doug (pictured with Royal), they really are best buds,' Laura said

The youngster even dreams about living full time with best friend Doug (pictured together) and often asks his mother if they can all move in together

Grandfather-of-two Doug was diagnosed with Alzheimer's five years ago and often gets confused, with some days 'more challenging than others,' according to Laura (pictured with the pensioner)

The youngster even dreams about living full time with best friend Doug and often asks his mother if they can all move in together.

'I have overheard Royal tell his friends about Doug and always asks why we can't all live together which is super sweet,' she explained.

'When Royal starts school, I think Doug will be a bit lost without him as he always says "Goodbye, I am going to miss you" when we are leaving on an evening.'

Grandfather-of-two Doug was diagnosed with Alzheimer's five years ago and often gets confused, with some days 'more challenging than others,' according to Laura.

But Laura says that if the pair are having a 'hard day', then going to the beach often improves their moods. Pictured: The duo during their days out to the seaside

Doug shows off his basketball skills to the four-year-old as they enjoy a day out together

'Some days are tougher than others, it's not always rainbows and unicorns. When Royal is having a hard day and crying or upset about something it can throw Doug off too,' she admitted.

'I have noticed that when Royal and Doug are having a hard day, we go to the beach and jump in the waves and everyone's mood shifts.

'Royal doesn't understand what is wrong with Doug but he says "I know you have an 'owie' on your brain, but I am going to help you".

'It is great to be able to teach my son how important it is to always be of service to others through this care taking job. It has taught Royal to be compassionate and empathetic.

'Tay calls me her lifesaver and says their lives have changed since we have met and even the doctors have noticed Doug is happier.'

To see more of their adorable friendship follow @adventuresofdougandroyal.