Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.
Topic Contents
Alzheimer's and Other Dementias: Maintaining Good Nutrition
Overview
Getting a person with Alzheimer's disease or another dementia to eat enough may be a challenge in some cases. Some of these tips may help you.
- If the person resists using a spoon or fork, don't force the issue. Some people may have vision or motor problems that make using a spoon or fork difficult. Serve food that can be easily eaten, such as finger foods. Prepare foods the person likes and don't worry too much about how the food is eaten.
- Offer food more often. This includes healthy mid-morning and mid-afternoon snacks.
- Set aside enough time for meals. The person may take longer to eat.
- Limit choices, which can be confusing. Serve meals in courses, one food at a time.
- Make sure the person's dentures fit properly. Uncomfortable dentures can make eating painful and keep the person from eating enough.
- If the person is losing weight, consider adding a liquid nutrition drink. An example of a nutrition drink is Ensure. Ask your pharmacist or doctor for more information.
- Eat with the person.
Related Information
Credits
Current as of: September 25, 2023
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Current as of: September 25, 2023
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content.
To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com.
© 2024 Ignite Healthwise, LLC. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Ignite Healthwise, LLC.