Every year in November
is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. Taking care of someone with Alzheimer’s takes a
lot of patience. It is difficult to know what types of foods he or she might want
to eat. Often the person with Alzheimer’s might not want to eat that much.
Towards the end of the disease, the person loses his or her appetite.
It is a stressful time
for the caregiver and the entire family. It is recommended that in the
early stages of Alzheimer’s, the person should eat plenty of vegetables,
fruits, and whole grains. Additionally, he or she should consume lean meats, lean
chicken, or anything that is grilled with less cooking oil. His or her doctor
might recommend a specific diet with low sodium, low sugar, and healthy meals
for the heart. As well as foods with less cholesterol.
Keep in mind the portion
sizes for the person you are taking care of. He or she will have a smaller appetite
as Alzheimer’s progress. The caregiver might want to use smaller lightweight
plates and lightweight utensils. Do not force the person to eat the food that
is served. He or she might not want to eat at the same time as the caregiver.
Mealtimes should not be
frustrating for the caregiver and the entire family. Yet, it is hard to predict
when the person with Alzheimer’s wants to eat or drink something. Listen to him
or her. The doctor might recommend having him or her on an eating and drinking schedule.
If you have any concerns about their appetite, ask his or her doctor about appetite
loss, loss of sense of smell, medications, and other worries you might have as
a caregiver.
Make it comfortable for
him or her to eat one item at a time during mealtimes. Do not have any
electronics or anything that might distract him or her from eating and
drinking. Expect to see a messier table during mealtimes but do not get upset
with him or her. You might need to explain to him or her what he or she is eating
and drinking. Here are resources for taking care of a person with Alzheimer’s.
How to Make Feeding Dementia Sufferers Easier:
Alzheimer's and Dementia Care:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/caregivers/in-depth/alzheimers/art-20047918
Alzheimer's Association:
Alzheimer's Association | Alzheimer's Disease & Dementia Help
Alzheimer's Tips for Caregivers:
https://www.alzheimers.gov/life-with-dementia/tips-caregivers
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