Mealtimes should be enjoyable, as well as a time to connect with friends and family. For individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, eating can present a unique set of challenges. Memory loss, medication side effects, poor coordination, and more can lead to weight loss and poor nutrition.
To further complicate matters, those in the middle and later stages of Alzheimer’s are often unable to communicate effectively. As a result, caregivers may struggle when a loved one refuses to eat or seems to have no appetite. There are simple strategies caregivers can use to overcome mealtime challenges. Read on to learn more.
Possible Causes for Loss of Appetite in Individuals with Dementia
Before we discuss tips for mealtime success, it is important to understand what is prompting the behavior. There are numerous reasons why your loved one may refuse to eat or not feel hungry.
Knowing the cause will allow you to respond appropriately. For example, experiencing a loss of appetite due to medication side effects will require a different solution than having difficulty using utensils.
Here are some of the most common causes of poor appetite and nutrition in individuals with dementia:
- Forgetfulness. Memory loss may cause your loved one to forget that they need to eat and drink, how to use their utensils, or even how to eat.
- Loss of sense of smell and taste. It isn’t uncommon for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease to experience a change in how things taste and smell. Additionally, your loved one may forget what foods taste like, leading them to unexpectedly change their preferences.
- Anxiety and agitation. Sometimes individuals with dementia feel anxious and agitated, making it difficult to enjoy and finish a meal.
- Oral health. Eating may be challenging and painful if your loved one suffers from poor dental hygiene or ill-fitting dentures.
- Medication side effects. Certain medicines may cause a loss of appetite.
- Insufficient exercise. Not getting enough exercise can lower your loved one’s appetite.
- G.I. issues. Constipation is a common complication for adults with dementia. The pain and discomfort may reduce your loved one’s appetite.
- Lack of coordination. Changes in your loved one’s level of coordination can make it difficult for them to hold a knife and fork, or lift a cup for a drink.
Tips for Successful Mealtimes
Overcoming mealtime challenges may require a trial-and-error approach, depending on what is causing your loved one’s loss of appetite. It’s essential to remain patient and flexible until you find a combination that works best for you and your loved one.
Use the following strategies from the Cleveland Clinic to get started:
- Create a calm environment. Make sure mealtimes are free from distractions. Remove clutter, and turn off the television and other electronic devices. Consider playing soft music your loved one enjoys.
- Offer variety. While you don’t want to overwhelm your loved one with choices, providing a few different foods that look and smell good may entice their appetite.
- Smaller meals. Try smaller portions throughout the day instead of three larger meals that might be difficult for your loved one to sit through.
- Easy-to-chew foods. If your loved one has difficulty chewing or swallowing, opt for foods with a softer texture – for example, scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, cottage cheese, milkshakes, and yogurt. Cut foods with a firmer texture into bite-sized pieces.
- Finger foods. Individuals who struggle with using utensils may do better with finger foods. From sandwiches and miniature quiches to fruit and cheeses, there are plenty of options to choose from.
- Slow down. Allow enough time to eat. This is especially important when your loved one is experiencing agitation or anxiety.
- Provide visual cues. Eliminate visual clutter by using plates, bowls, placemats, or tablecloths that are a single color instead of patterned. Use bowls or plates that contrast with the placemat or tablecloth to make it easier for your loved one to see their food. Make sure the dining area has plenty of light too.
- Provide verbal cues. Let your loved one know what food is on their plate and where. For example – the baked chicken is at the top of your plate, and the rice is at the bottom.
- Serve as a model. Individuals in the middle and later stages of Alzheimer’s disease may forget how to eat or use silverware. Demonstrating what you want your loved one to do may help.
- Test the temperature. Some individuals with dementia may have difficulty knowing if their meal or drink is too hot to consume. Avoid an accidental burn by testing the temperature before serving.
If your loved one’s lack of appetite persists, or they experience weight loss, discuss with their doctor and dentist to rule out other possible causes.
Related: Mindfulness Tips for Caregivers >>
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