The Challenge Of Eating
A plate of food is put on the table, “Okay, it’s time to eat” a caregiver might say. The caregiver might then be met with blank stares. No action, anger, spillage, or even efforts to leave the table. Don’t be surprised if this happens to you.
Let’s put this into perspective, eating takes memory skills that are breaking down in the brain of a person with Alzheimer’s disease. Eating consists of recognizing the food you see. Remembering what to do with utensils, and even remembering what the food is for.
Know that, if you weren’t taking care of someone with Alzheimer’s disease. They could forget to eat and that’s not because they can’t feel hunger. But because they may not recognize hunger pangs and would not remember what to do to remedy the feeling. Preparing meals also becomes overly complicated due to the brain changes.
Helping Them Remember
So, what can you do to help? Talk to your loved one and remind them it is meal time and let them know what you are serving. You can help them with the utensils – fill a spoon with soup and gently take their hand. Help them to hold on to it in a hand over hand position and gently guide it to their mouth. By cueing them this way it may spark them to continue on their own. Some reminders for the next bite may be required.
A Professional Help
As the disease progresses, sadly there will likely come a time when they may no longer be able to feed themselves. This is where caregivers will need to assist throughout the entire meal. Meal textures may also need to be adapted to match their abilities. You need food to be cut up in small bites, minced or even puréed. Don’t forget to discuss textures with your family doctor or dietitian.
By offering them reminders, some explanation, friendly cueing, simple gestures and proper food textures. The mealtime can be more supportive and enjoyable for the person you are caring for.
Bon Appétit!
Karen 🙂
Karen Tyrell, CDP, CPCA
Personalized Dementia Solutions
www.DementiaSolutions.ca
