Eating with Alzheimer's Loss of Appetite & Tips for Carers

Caring for an individual suffering from Alzheimer's disease can be very challenging especially when the carer is aiming to ensure that the person is receiving a healthy balanced diet. Very often the individual loses interest in food, whether this is in the early stages for example due to depression or in the later stages when the person does not realise they are hungry or thirsty.

It is always advisable to visit their GP if the lack of appetite is due to depression as this is treatable and the appetite often returns once the depression has lifted.

The person may also lose their appetite due to them suffering from a sore mouth or poorly fitted dentures. Remember that regular mouth and dental care is essential.

Loss of appetite may also be due to the individual being inactive during the day. Use gentle encouragement to tempt them into light physical activities such as a walk to the shops or help them gain an interest in a physical hobby such as gardening. Should the person have physical disabilities, you should request advice from their GP on what exercises might be of benefit.

As Alzheimer's disease develops into the later stages you may find that even if hungry the individual does not understand that they are supposed to eat the food that has been placed in front of them. Remember to make gentle prompts to remind them to eat. They may find it helpful if you eat with them. This will provide visual reminders of what to do and how.

Some medications that are prescribed for sufferers of Alzheimer's disease can affect the appetite. You may notice that the medication has caused constipation or a dry mouth. Always remember to increase their fluid intake whilst making sure that they are receiving adequate fibre in their diet. Moist foods are more beneficial in these circumstances such as sauces, gravy and soups. Encourage the individual to have a drink, such as juice or water whilst eating their meal.

Sufferers of Alzheimer's disease often experience difficulties with chewing and swallowing. Look out for holding food in their mouths and coughing whilst trying to swallow. Try to offer foods that are easily swallowed and not too chewing. Avoid foods where there is a choking risk. Should the inability to swallow begin affecting the diet, it is recommended that you consult their GP.

Using a knife and fork may become difficult due to the lack of co-ordination. The individual may begin feeling self conscious and frustrated when they drop food. Try to offer finger foods to maintain their independence.
Some supermarkets offer a delivery service, where orders can be placed by phone or through the internet. This is a good way of ensuring a regular stock of fresh food and can help if time is limited or it is difficult to get to the shops. There may be a charge for this service, so it is best to ask first.
You may notice that people who suffer from Alzheimer's disease have a change in their food preferences. Should their food preference become limited, there will be a danger that they are not receiving the adequate nutrients for a balanced diet. You may need to seek advice from a dietician as food supplements such as protein enriched drinks may need to be consumed.
People with a small appetite may not want large servings of food three times a day. If a person's appetite is poor they will be put of large platefuls.
Try to offer sensible smaller portions and if consumed then offer further portions. In between mealtimes, offer healthy nutritious snacks.
You may also find that the smaller appetite prefers their meals to be spread out into five or six meals per day, rather than three. The important thing to remember is finding what suits you both.