Food is important, not just as a source of fuel, but as a way to bring families and communities together. As people age and potentially experience cognitive decline or dementia, mealtimes become even more important for both physical and mental wellbeing.
Dementia affects how the person experiences aspects of the world around them, as well as memory and recall. This means it has a profound impact on their relationship with food and drink.
How does someone’s relationship with food change with dementia?
It can manifest in several ways, as every patient is unique and different types of dementia affect the brain in different ways. They can include:
- Changes in appetite, perhaps refusing food or simply not being hungry
- Forgetting to eat and drink, or conversely forgetting that they have already eaten and so overeat.
- Being unable to feed themselves or hold a drink
- Changes in food preferences, perhaps preferring food they had when they were younger
- Being unable to communicate needs, for example, discomfort when chewing, or preferences
- Issues with concentration and being distracted at mealtimes
How do carers support someone with dementia at mealtimes?
One of the challenges of caring for someone living with dementia is to make sure they are well-fed and hydrated, and so able to live as fulfilling a life as possible.
Alzheimer’s Society has guidance for managing mealtimes that can be applied to people still living in their own homes and for residents in dementia-specific residential care homes.
Shared regular mealtimes mean social interaction with staff, visitors and other residents. Encouraging them to talk about food and perhaps help make the food, or even grow it in the garden if it is safe to do so, can help with appetite.
Keeping with familiar routine for times and locations of meals can help to reduce anxiety around food. However, if this causes stress, then healthy snacks between meals can ensure they get enough nutritious food.
Researchers recommend encouraging independent eating whenever possible, but mealtimes must be safe and they may need assistance. If someone needs help with feeding, then let them determine the speed and when they are finished.
If someone doesn’t want to eat, then it is best not to force them. Instead encourage them to drink liquids and come back to the food later.
Staff and carers should monitor the amount of food and drink a person has to make sure they are getting enough but not overeating.
Mealtimes with dementia can be challenging for everyone involved. Knowing that your loved one with dementia can enjoy their home-cooked meals safely is one of the many benefits of Cleeve Lodge residential care home in Goring.