Alzheimer's and dementia care: Making mealtimes easier

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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

If your loved one is having trouble eating, check for underlying problems, such as:

Oral problems. Make sure dentures fit properly and are being used. Check for mouth sores or other oral or dental issues.
Medication effects. Many medications decrease appetite, including some drugs used to treat Alzheimer's. If you think medications are contributing to eating problems, ask your loved one's doctor about substitutions.
Chronic conditions. Diabetes, heart disease, digestive problems and depression can dampen interest in eating. Constipation can have the same effect. Treating these or other underlying conditions might improve your loved one's appetite.