Making Mealtime
Easier
Adapted from articles from NIA
Many time people with memory loss and confustion have difficulty with eating.
Below are some simple ways to make their mealtime easier:
~ Offer meals at regular times - routine helps keep a person with memory loss from becoming agitated or upset
~ Give clear and simple instructions
~ Reduce distractions - no extra items on the table; use solid color plates, placements, etc.
~ Prepare ahead of time
~ Provide a calm environment
~ Make eating easy - fill glasses halfway; cut food in small peices; make food portions small
~ Try finger foods
~ Serve foods you know the person knows and likes
~ Check for physical discomfort
~ Plan ahead when eating out
~ Serve soft foods
~ Make it tasty. Don't serve foods that are bland or sour tasting
~ Put the power in their hands. If at all possible, let them decide what they would like to eat
~ Write it down - keep a food diary, including any food they had problems with
~ Work it out - try to get them moving to work up an appetite
If you notice your loved one or someone you care for has decreased appetite you can:
~ Offer high caloric drink foods like ice cream, milkshakes or eggnog
~ Offer familiar foods: foods you know are favorites
~ Make the main meal at lunch when appetite is larger
~ Offer 4 to 6 small meals a day
If your loved one is having problems swallowing:
~ Allow time between bites and check mouth for food in cheek
~ You may need to remind person to swallow, gently stroking the throat will help stimulate swallowing
If your loved one is having motivational problems:
~ Make meal look appetizing, try adding fruit or vegetable garnishs to the plate.
~ Play soft music and light some candles
~ Talk about the day's events while they eat