Hints for happier meals

As dementia progresses, mealtimes can become challenging. The person with the disease may start to lose interest in food, reject a favourite dish or forget how to use utensils or eat altogether. In the later stages, they may find it difficult to swallow or chew their food. These challenges can lead to poor nutrition, weight loss and other health issues.

With some creativity and flexibility, you can make your life as a caregiver easier and turn mealtimes for the person in your care less stressful and more enjoyable. Try these tactics.

Loss of appetite

It's a good idea to check with your doctor to eliminate other potential causes for sudden loss of appetite or weight. Your doctor can also provide advice or even suggest supplements or medications.

• Maintain a regular routine for meals
• Prepare foods in the same way, especially favourite foods
• Ensure meals are balanced
• Have plenty of fluids available to avoid dehydration
• Try a glass of water or juice before meals to stimulate their appetite
• Make healthy snacks such as fruit and vegetables

Overeating

It's not uncommon for people with dementia to suddenly develop an insatiable appetite or cravings such as sugar. It's important to monitor their weight and check the foods they're consuming.

• Check for side effects of new medications that could cause sudden cravings or changes in appetite
• Serve five or six smaller meals throughout the day
• Make low-calorie snacks available like apples and carrots
• Offer healthier, low-calorie versions of favourite foods
• Try incorporating more physical or social activities in their daily routine

At the table

Using the wrong utensil or feelings of confusion and agitation are signs that the person with dementia is having difficulty. Stay calm; view mealtimes as time to be with family and share food together.

• Keep table settings simple; avoid patterned dishes, tablecloths and placemats
• Limit distractions; turn off the television
• Make sure food temperature is neither too hot nor too cold
• Don't overload the table with food; try serving one course at a time
• Turn mealtimes into a social opportunity; reminisce about a particular event
• Involve the person in preparing the meal such as measuring out ingredients or setting the table
• Loosen the rules; provide only one utensil or let the person eat with their fingers; try converting meals into finger foods
• Don't get too fussed about neatness

Chewing and swallowing

As the disease progresses, people with dementia may forget how to chew or swallow or lose the sensation of thirst. Dry mouth, gum disease or ill-fitting dentures could also make swallowing and chewing difficult.

• Get a check up at the dentist
• Moisten food with a gravies or sauces
• Chop, mash or puree foods; try serving soft foods
• Consult with a doctor or dietitian about nutritional supplement drinks
• Allow plenty of time for eating
• Offer a straw for soups
• Remind the person to swallow with each bite; try stroking their throat
• Learn first aid
  

For more help and tips, contact your local Alzheimer Society.