Dementia affects the brain in ways that can make eating less appealing. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, “poor nutrition may increase behavioral symptoms and cause weight loss.” Some common reasons for appetite loss include:
- Sensory changes – Taste and smell may diminish, making food less enjoyable
- Medication side effects – Some prescriptions can alter appetite or cause nausea.
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing – Dental issues or changes in swallowing ability can make eating uncomfortable.
- Loss of routine – Without structure, a person with dementia may not recognize mealtimes.
- Emotional factors – Anxiety, depression, or confusion can reduce interest in food.
Tips to Encourage Eating
Here are some practical ways to help a loved one with dementia maintain good nutrition:
1. Create a Calm and Inviting Mealtime Atmosphere.
A relaxed setting with minimal distractions can encourage better eating habits. Keep the table setting simple, use soft lighting, and turn off the television to reduce overstimulation.
2. Offer Nutrient-Dense, Easy-to-Eat Foods.
If your loved one eats only small amounts, make every bite count. Offer soft, high-calorie foods like yogurt, oatmeal, mashed avocado, eggs, or smoothies. Finger foods such as cheese cubes, fruit slices, and sandwiches may also be easier to manage.
3. Maintain a Routine.
Eating at the same times every day can help the body and brain anticipate meals. Visual or verbal cues, such as setting the table or playing soft music, can also signal that it is time to eat.
4. Serve Smaller Portions More Frequently.
Large meals can be overwhelming, so try offering five or six smaller meals throughout the day instead of three big ones.
5. Make Food Visually Appealing.
Bright, colorful foods can be more appealing. A plate with contrasting colors—such as carrots and green beans on a white dish—can make it easier to see and enjoy food.
6. Offer Favorite Foods and Flavors.
Even if tastes have changed, certain foods may still bring comfort. Experiment with sweet, savory, or mildly spicy flavors to find what appeals most.
7. Adapt to Physical Challenges.
Offer easy-to-handle foods like wraps or pre-cut vegetables if using utensils becomes difficult. Adaptive utensils or cups with lids can also help with coordination.
8. Ensure Proper Hydration.
Dehydration can worsen confusion and reduce appetite. Encourage drinking water, herbal teas, or flavored beverages, and offer hydrating foods like melon, cucumbers, and soups.
9. Keep Mealtimes Social.
Eating with others can make meals more enjoyable. Sharing a meal, even if it is just sitting with your loved one while they eat, may encourage them to consume more food.
Caregiving and Nutrition
Caring for a person with dementia comes with challenges, but small adjustments can make a big difference. By focusing on a positive mealtime experience and adapting to his/her changing needs, you can help your loved one maintain better nutrition and overall well-being.
