Nutrition and Mealtime

On days when my mom doesn’t eat well I give her Boost or Ensure. Read More

When eating, put a foam-type shelf liner under the plate which will help to keep it from slipping around. Also, I have made large “clothing protectors” out of old towels with a strap for around the neck that fastens with velco. They used these at the rehab center where my… Read More

Proper nutrition is important for any senior’s health, especially those living with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Lack of nutrition can increase symptoms and result in weight loss and other complications to the condition. For those living with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease there are factors that could contribute to loss of… Read More

People who have Alzheimer’s disease are more sensitive to the effects of alcohol. However, there is not a specific effect of alcohol on memory if people do not abuse alcohol and do not develop vitamin B deficiency. One glass of wine a day may be actually good for your loved… Read More

As we age we lose our taste buds and so often people crave foods that have more flavor—things that are salty or sweet. But craving sugar can also be a sign of other things that need to be treated. It could be important to determine, is this is a new… Read More

Be sure the person is sitting upright. Alternate solids with sips of liquids. Make foods more liquid as you feed—for example, add extra milk to mashed potatoes. Gently coach the person through feedings: “Okay, open your mouth…now close…now chew…swallow…” Try touching the person’s chin or cheek as a gentle way… Read More

Avoid hard foods: popcorn, nuts, hard candy, hard raw vegetables (such as carrots), hot dogs (unless finely diced), grapes, apples. Avoid foods that require a lot of chewing: celery, steak, chips. Avoid sticky foods such as peanut butter. Mash up foods or puree them in a blender or baby-food grinder;… Read More

Indulge food preferences as much as possible, provided the overall diet is reasonably balanced. It’s okay to serve the same entree day after day. Serve the same food more than once in a day if it’s requested. Ask the doctor about adding vitamins if the diet seems unbalanced. Consider preparing… Read More

Someone may be messy eating because of lack of control, lack of attentiveness, or decreased interested in self-care and hygiene. Here are some ways you can help one with messy eating habits: Lower expectations and look the other way as much as you can. Use a vinyl tablecloth, which is… Read More

Offer liquids throughout the day; don’t wait for the person to ask. Don’t just hand over a glass; stand by and make sure the drink is actually sipped. Vary the types of beverages offered: water, juice, milk, hot chocolate, cider. Even coffee, tea, and soda are okay in moderation (about… Read More