October 26, 2017

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Allison Conchie

Photo by Monstruo Estudio on Unsplash

Making sure that your person receives the correct and enough nutrition and fluids is often not an easy task. People with Dementia will often forget to to eat meals or their appetite may affected by certain medications that they are taking.

1. Schedule their meal times around the same time each day. Routine is is so important. as they may not be hugely hungry , perhaps consider 5 small meals a day. Make sure their caregiver is informed of their routine and should make sure to stick to it if possible.Sit down and eat with your loved one and if that is not possible, request their caregiver to do so. Eating alone is not pleasant and it allows them time to connect and not feel so isolated.
2. Try to turn off TVs and music and perhaps make an effort to place flowers on the table. It is also important to let them try to eat independently. Table manners should not be a concern and maybe provide foods they can eat with their hands, especially during snack time. Always and I mean always take into consideration your loved ones restrictions such as dentures and trouble chewing when preparing food. They will get frustrated, agitated and embarrassed. Cut food into bite sized pieces before placing it in front of your loved one. This will avoid them feeling as if you are treating them like a child. You may sometimes have a loved one who struggles to chew or swallow food. Gently stroke their neck under their chin to encourage them to swallow.
3. Weight Loss is a worrisome consideration with some people as without routine loved ones may very often forget to eat. Try to include calorie dense meals to encourage some weight gain.
4. If they struggle to hold a glass independently, get them a straw or a sort of cup that has a straw attached. Again only help when really needed as to help them keep some independence.

Being prepared helps to ease some of the stress and worry this condition creates for all involved. I hope these few tips make meals times easier and maybe even a special time to connect with your loved one.

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