Assistance with Eating / Weight Loss Concerns

Another very common issue for persons with a memory impairing illness is unplanned weight loss and problems with eating. As the disease progresses, some people may experience loss of appetitie or increased anxiety and wandering. Because of this, weight loss and dehydration are common occurances.

The following tips may be helpful in preventing or reversing unplanned weight loss and dehydration. IMPORTANT: Any changes in weight, ability or desire to eat or drink may indicate a medical issue. Contact your physician to notify them of any noted changes in condition.

> Offer several smaller meals throughout the day and evening rather than three larger meals.

> Suppliment meals with high protein/high calorie drinks. Making milk shakes with ice cream, fresh fruit, protein powder & flavored syrup can be a simple way to add calories to their daily diet.

> Add butter to vegetables, potatoes and bread

> Use heavy cream in place of milk in coffee, tea, cereal, scrambled eggs.

> Have hot chocolate in place of coffee in the morning (And use heavy cream instead of milk)

> Offer "finger foods" and easy to eat items. Try and substitute food that can be eaten with the hands in order to simplify meals and eliminate the need for utensils (sandwiches, tater tots, green beans, chicken drum sticks, french toast sticks, breakfast burritos...)

> Do not demand that they eat or try and argue or reason. Ask them instead if they will try your new recipe, taste the food to see if it's correct, etc.

> Set up meal in a more formal atmosphere - like the dining room or change the look of the kitchen table by adding a special table cloth and candles. If the meal appears to be that of a social or special function, they may be more willing to eat.

> Offer fluids all through the day and into early evening. Juices, water, flavored water and clear sodas are best. If offering coffee, offer decaf.

> Increase their opportunity to snack by leaving out plates of cookies, bowls of fruit, pitchers of juice, containers of vegetables... that they may find on their own during the day and partake.

The Alzheimer's Association of WNY has a variety of helpful resources on this and other caregiving subjects. Feel free to contact them at 716-626-0600.

For information regarding ElderWood Senior Care's Memory Care Programs, contact us at (716) 633-3900.