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
Professional support
Regular conversations about nutrition are an important part of ongoing care for a person with dementia. A care team can help you provide adequate nutrition.
- Primary care doctor. If there are changes in weight and eating habits, call the doctor. Ask for advice on the use of vitamins or supplemental beverages.
- Dietitian. A licensed dietitian can offer guidance on healthy and simple meal planning for a person with dementia.
- Occupational therapist. An occupational therapist can provide services and training that supports eating skills and suggest tools that make eating easier.
- Speech-language pathologist. These specialists can provide assessment, therapy and caregiver training to assist a person who has difficulty chewing and swallowing.
- Service agencies. A county or area agency for older adults can help you identify service programs or professionals that support dementia caregiving.
