If your parent has dementia, you’ve probably already noticed that dementia can impact your parent’s personality and physical health as well as their memory. But did you know that dementia can also change the way that your parent eats and interacts with food? Dementia care at home is essential for seniors who have dementia because their illness can affect their parents’ ability to do many activities of daily living, like eating enough food. And as the dementia advances, your parent may not be able to tell you if they are experiencing changes in their appetite.
A dementia care provider who has dementia care training knows what cues to look for that signal your parent is hungry or thirsty. They are always watching to make sure that they don’t miss important non-verbal cues from your parent. And they can help create predictable routines that will help your parent know when they are supposed to eat each day.
Changes In Appetite Caused By Dementia
Some seniors who have dementia don’t experience any changes to their appetite until the dementia is quite advanced. But others may experience changes in how their brain processes the color, taste, and texture of food very soon after being diagnosed.
Some of the changes in appetite that happen to seniors who have dementia are:
They may not recognize food or understand what it is
One of the biggest changes is that a senior with dementia may not recognize food when it is placed in front of them. A meal that once looked familiar may now seem strange or confusing. They may not know if the item on the plate is food or something else.
Because of this, they might refuse to eat or push the plate away. Some seniors may forget what certain foods are called or what they are used for. Simple meals with familiar foods and fewer items on the plate can help reduce confusion and make eating feel safer.
Smells and textures may suddenly bother them
Dementia can change how the brain processes smells and textures. Foods that a senior once enjoyed may now smell unpleasant or feel uncomfortable in their mouth. Strong smells, such as fried foods or spices, may be overwhelming.
Textures can also become a problem. Crunchy, sticky, or mixed-texture foods may feel strange or upsetting. Because of this, seniors may avoid certain foods or eat much less. Offering soft foods and mild smells can make meals more enjoyable and less stressful.
They may forget how to chew or swallow
As dementia progresses, some seniors forget the steps involved in eating. They may not remember how to chew their food or when to swallow. This can cause food to stay in the mouth for a long time or lead to choking risks.
Caregivers may notice the senior holding food in their mouth or becoming anxious during meals. Gentle reminders, slow pacing, and foods that are easy to chew can help. In some cases, a doctor or speech therapist may suggest changes to food texture to keep eating safe.
They may not recognize hunger or fullness
Dementia can affect the body’s natural hunger and fullness signals. A senior may not realize they are hungry, even if they have not eaten all day. On the other hand, they may keep eating because they do not feel full.
This can lead to weight loss, dehydration, or overeating. Regular meal times and small snacks throughout the day can help keep nutrition steady. Caregivers often need to offer food and drinks instead of waiting for the senior to ask.
They may struggle with using utensils or following meal routines
Seniors with dementia may forget how to use forks, spoons, or knives. They might try to eat with their hands or feel frustrated when utensils do not make sense anymore. This frustration can lead to anger, embarrassment, or refusal to eat.
They may also forget the usual steps of a meal, such as sitting at the table or staying focused long enough to finish eating. Simple table settings, finger foods, and calm surroundings can make mealtime easier. Reducing noise and distractions can also help them stay engaged.
If you or an aging loved one is considering Dementia Care Services in Lauderhill, FL, please get in touch with the caring staff at Star Multi Care today. Call 954-962-0926.
Star Multi Care is a Trusted Home Care Agency in Florida, including Palm Beach, Miami-Dade, and Broward County.
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