Common Eating Problems in Alzheimer's Patients

As Alzheimer’s progresses, eating problems can make the situation worse.

Consider the following:
Do dentures still fit?
What medications could be affecting appetite?
What other chronic conditions are present, such as diabetes or digestive problems?
What time of day is your loved one most alert and hungry?

Senses of taste and smell diminish and your loved one may forget to eat and/or lose the skills necessary for eating.
1. Gently remind your loved one to eat.
2. Understand that table manners and judgment diminish. Your loved one may try to eat from others’ plates or from serving bowls.
****Be alert that your loved one may eat anything in sight, including items not intended to be food.

Mealtime TIPS
1. TURN OFF radio, TV, telephone, etc. to reduce agitation.
2. Remove clutter from table.
3. Use brightly colored plates(red or blue)
4. Use placemats that do not slip.
5. Feel free to substitute:
bowls for plates
spoons for forks
6. Bendable straws and lidded cups are helpful.
7. Try placing one food at a time on the plate.
8. Cut food into bitesized pieces or introduce finger foods.
9. Try serving your loved one several small meals during the day.

****Consult with your loved one’s physician if you notice a sudden weight loss.