Articles
Alzheimer's and dementia care: Making mealtimes easier
Try large-handled utensils
Consider underlying conditions
Acknowledge declining skills and senses
Expect agitation and distraction
Maintain familiar routines
Get visual
Use easy-to-handle utensils
Offer foods one at a time
Take your time
Sneak in extra nutrition
Content
Causes of poor nutrition
Support for people with early-stage dementia
Mealtime support
Foods to avoid
Professional support
Expect agitation and distraction
Agitation and other signs and symptoms of Alzheimer's can make it difficult to sit still long enough to eat a meal. Distractions at mealtime might make this even worse. To reduce distractions:
- Serve food in a quiet setting, away from the television
- Put your cellphone on vibrate
- Clear the table of any unnecessary items
Discourage your loved one from drinking alcoholic beverages. Although alcohol might stimulate the appetite, it can lead to confusion and agitation as well as contribute to falls.
