Dementia and eating difficulties

As Alzheimer's progresses, simple, day-to-day functions become
increasingly difficult and mealtimes could present significant
challenges for your loved one. They may experience a loss of
appetite or interest in food or could forget that they have already
eaten. If you notice that your loved one is having difficulty
maintaining a healthy, regular diet, there are several things you
can do to encourage independence and make mealtimes easier

then Click here for some tips if the Alzheimer's or dementia person is in the early to midstage of these diseases

Begin by setting up a regular mealtime and sticking to it so that
your loved one always knows when he or she will be eating. They
will be less likely to overeat or forget that they're supposed to
be eating if they're used to a schedule. You man need to begin
preparing each meal for your loved one as it may be unsafe for them
to use a stove or dangerous kitchen utensils. Limit distractions
during mealtimes and keep the table settings simple so that your
loved one can focus on their food and eating rather than the
television, a table setting or the telephone.

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solutions to common Alzheimer's and dementia eating problems

Keep in mind that your loved ones food preferences may change and
be prepared to adapt to their new tastes. Avoid choking hazards,
such as raw vegetables, popcorn, and nuts, and educate yourself on
how to perform the Heimlich maneuver and CPR in case there is an
accident. Alzheimer's patients can become overwhelmed and confused
easily, so serve one food at a time, rather than an entire
plateful, so they can concentrate on eating. Encourage your loved
one to take his or her time chewing and swallow carefully and check
the temperature of their food to be sure it's neither too hot or
too cold, as they may no longer be able to distinguish the
difference.

Though there may come a point when your loved one is unable to feed
themselves, it's important to encourage independence and allow them
to eat as much on their own. Offer finger foods, such as chicken
fingers, cheese cubes, cherry tomatoes and cheese slices, if
they're having difficulty using utensils and don't worry about
neatness. If your loved one has a habit of pushing his or her
plate or glass around the table, invest in spill proof cups and
plates with suction cups so they are easier to manage. Demonstrate
how they should be using their utensils and remind them how to chew
so that they are less likely to choke. Most importantly, make a
point to eat every meal together so that you not only get to spend
quality time with one another, but so you can keep a watchful eye
and make sure they're actually eating their food and doing so in a
safe way.
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Until next time
Brian Willie