Tips for Making Mealtimes Easier for Your Loved One

Throughout the different stages of Alzheimer’s, eating may become difficult for your loved one. These difficulties can be caused by experiencing a change in taste or smell, having too many choices, or a combination of many things.

 

Tips for Mealtime:

 

Limit distractions- have dinner in a quiet area away from noise or television.

Keep things simple- avoid placing unnecessary items on the table such as table arrangements or plastic fruit. Try to limit items on the table to what is needed for the meal.

Distinguish food from the plate- it can help to use white plates or bowls that make the food easily distinguishable. You can also use a contrasting color place mat, but avoid anything with patterns.

Check food temperature- someone with Alzheimer’s may not be able to tell if food or drink is too hot or cold. Make sure to check the temperature of items before serving.

Serve only one or two foods at a time- too many options at once can be overwhelming. Try serving the main dish first and then when finished, serving a side.

Give your loved one plenty of time- remind them to chew food and to be careful when swallowing. Keep in mind they may take longer to eat.

Eat with them- meals may be more enjoyable for them when they’re eating with someone. Research suggests that people eat better when they are in the company of others.

 

            Hiring Visiting Angels can help solve your mealtime worries! One of our caregivers can help with planning, meal prep, grocery shopping or even to just sit down with your loved one while they are eating. A Visiting Angels caregiver can also help with many other things, including but not limited to transportation to and from appointments, personal care, companion care, light housekeeping and more!