Eating can become harder as Alzheimer’s progresses. A person may forget to eat, become overwhelmed by too many choices, lose interest in familiar foods, have trouble using utensils or develop chewing or swallowing problems.
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Simplify the meal environment
Reduce noise and distractions. Offer a limited number of foods at one time. Use familiar dishes and a consistent place to eat when possible. Give the person enough time; rushing can increase frustration.
Support independence
Let the person feed themselves for as long as it is safe and practical. Simple finger foods or easier-to-handle utensils may help in some situations. Gentle prompting can be more effective than repeatedly taking over the task.
Track patterns
Note what foods are accepted, how long meals take, whether the person coughs or struggles, changes in weight, hydration concerns and whether fatigue or behavior changes are affecting meals. Bring important changes to the clinician.
Watch for swallowing concerns
Coughing during meals, repeated choking, a wet or gurgly voice after swallowing, recurrent chest infections or a clear decline in the ability to eat or drink safely should be discussed promptly with an appropriate health professional. Swallowing problems can require individualized assessment.
Avoid force-feeding
Pushing food when a person is refusing can increase distress and may create safety problems. If intake is persistently poor, contact the health care team rather than trying to solve the issue through pressure alone.
This page is educational and does not replace medical, nutrition or swallowing assessment.
Sources: National Institute on Aging: Helping People With Alzheimer’s Eat Well; Alzheimer’s Association: Food & Eating.