A typical symptom of Alzheimer’s and Dementia is a pattern of bad eating habits. If your loved one is having a hard time eating, can be combative about meal times, is “not hungry” often, or is losing weight due to lack of calories, use these tips to help both the senior and caregiver have happier meal times.
1. If they are not eating- take the decision making away- give them one item at a time. 2. Try not to give caffeine later in the day 3.Give them food they recognize 4. In the central part of the US, the evening meal was called Supper not Dinner 5. Reward them to eat, dessert comes if meal is eaten 6. Do not use garnishes 7. Give them their territory 8. Wait until dinner is ready before bringing the person to the table 9. Sprinkle food with a sweetener (chocolate syrup, etc.) when necessary 10. Snack sandwiches after breakfast and lunch 11. No distractions during mealtime 12. Use place mats 13. Table should be clutter free 14. Plates should be in contrast to place mats 15. Give them food they enjoy 16. Stay away from decision making during meal timeWe hope some of these tips help with keeping good eating habits for our seniors.
If you have any other tips or tricks dealing with food and eating during Alzheimer’s and Dementia, please share with us here or on facebook.
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