Eliana Lakritz MS RD LDN, Clinical Dietitian, Baystate Noble Hospital (WNG file photo)
by Eliana Lakritz MS RD LDN, Clinical Dietitian, Baystate Noble Hospital
When it comes to a loved one, I’m sure you and your family would do anything you can to give him/her the best quality of life. Dementia affects many elderly adults and can be quite difficult to manage. Older adults with dementia are at risk for nutrition-related deficiencies and conditions because their relationship with food may be impacted by declining mental state. According to the Alzheimer’s Disease International, undernutrition in older adults with dementia “is the most common nutritional problem, affecting up to 10% of older people living at home, 30% of those living in care homes, and 70% of hospitalized older people.” It is extremely important to acknowledge and intervene in any issues related to eating that may arise. There are several common eating troubles that those with dementia experience. Here are a few tips on resolving problems associated with eating.
- Limit mealtime distractions. People with Alzheimer’s are often preoccupied by surroundings. Providing a quiet environment for meal times and seating your loved one in a location away from windows can be helpful in keeping their attention on eating.
- Choose white plates. Spatial awareness and visual deficits make it difficult to see the contrast between food, plate and table setting. Placing colorful food on a white or contrasting dish can help encourage differentiation.
- Serve one food at a time. Having a large selection of foods (such as meat, potato and a vegetable together) on a plate can be overwhelming. Introducing one food at a time can help.
- Avoid isolation. Dementia can often impact emotional health. Making mealtimes an enjoyable experience with family can promote eating.
- Provide finger foods. Food that can be eaten without utensils, such as sandwiches, orange slices, broccoli, bananas, or fish sticks can be helpful.
- Consider food preferences. If an older adult isn’t eating well, food diet or restrictions are not usually appropriate. Preparing favorite dishes or snacks may help to increase appetite.
- Try verbal cueing, mirroring and gesturing. Using phrases such as “take a sip” or “bring the fork to your mouth” by pointing can help promote eating/drinking. Encouraging intake by mirroring, such as “watch me” to demonstrate can also help. Provide positive reinforcement and praising.
- Enhance flavor and aroma of foods. Dementia and increasing age can affect how flavor is perceived due to alterations in taste and smell. Adding herbs and spices, especially fresh, can enhance aroma and taste. Consider maple, cheese, bacon flavors, as these have been shown to enhance enjoyment of food.
If you are interested in learning more about nutrition counseling sessions with a registered dietitian at Baystate Noble Hospital, please call 413-568-2811 ex: 5671 for more information.
