Nutrition and Hydration with Dementia
Good nutrition and hydration support health, energy, mood and even behavior. But dementia can make eating and drinking harder. A loved one might forget to eat, lose interest in food, have trouble using utensils or have difficulty swallowing.
Common challenges
- Forgetting whether they’ve eaten
- Not recognizing hunger or thirst
- Changes in taste and smell
- Trouble chewing or swallowing
- Being distracted by noise or too many choices
- Difficulty using a fork, knife or cup
- Dental problems or poorly fitting dentures
Tips at mealtime
- Keep meals calm. Turn off the TV and keep the table simple.
- Offer one or two foods at a time instead of a full plate.
- Use contrasting colors. A plain, colored plate on a contrasting placemat makes food easier to see.
- Try finger foods such as sandwiches, fruit slices and chicken strips, which are easier to manage.
- Eat together. People often follow your lead.
- Allow plenty of time.
- Offer smaller, more frequent meals and snacks if large meals are overwhelming.
Staying hydrated
Dehydration is common in older adults and can cause confusion, falls, constipation and urinary tract infections. It’s especially important during Florida’s hot months.
- Offer fluids regularly through the day.
- Include soups, smoothies, fruit and gelatin.
- Use clear cups so they can see what’s inside, or a favorite mug.
When to talk to a professional
Ask the doctor about weight loss, coughing or choking during meals, or refusing food. A dentist, a speech therapist (for swallowing) or a dietitian may help. In memory care homes, caregivers monitor meals and fluids and adjust textures and routines to each resident’s needs.
Have questions about memory care for someone you love? Call Generations Senior Living at (352) 474-2696 or schedule a tour of one of our three homes near The Villages.
