Mealtimes can be a confusing part of the day for those living with dementia, and because nutrition is vital for good health, it’s important to pay attention to the environment. We know that some symptoms of dementia include short attention span, being easily distracted, agnosia (the inability to recognize familiar objects) and visual impairment.  

For most of us, meals are a time for gathering with family and friends.  It allows for socialization, laughter and great company.  Considering that we typically eat three meals per day, we want mealtime to be just as enjoyable for those needing dementia care.  

By using these tips when providing dementia care, you will set the environment for better success.

 

Setting the table:

The table should be plain and easy to navigate. If using a tablecloth, use a solid color. Patterned tablecloths can be confusing and the printed details may resemble food or an object that could be feared, such as a bug. The plate and cup on the table should be a contrasting color to the table or tablecloth, and it should also be solid. White is a perfect choice because you want the food to stand out. If you are also using a placemat, use the same guidelines. This increases visibility. 

Do not place a knife, spoon and fork on the table if the meal can be eaten with only a fork. The more items placed in front of the person living with dementia and needing dementia care, the more confusing it will be come.  Confusion may lead to frustration.  Keep it simple.

 

Preparing the environment:

Noise in the environment should be reduced. If there are many people sitting at the table, the conversation should be minimal and not loud. Several voices can be overwhelming and does not allow the person living with dementia to focus on eating. For them, this is a task that requires concentration. Be mindful of cell phone use at the dining table.  This is also a distraction.  Choose soft relaxing music rather than television to enhance a calming effect. When possible, limit other unpleasant sounds, such as a vacuum cleaner running during meals.  

If eating outside, plan your picnic away from busy areas. If attending a party, try to locate a spot that is more isolated, so the noise level is reduced for your loved one requiring dementia care.

 

Offering the meal: 

Prepare foods that you know the person enjoys. Check the temperature of the food before providing it. Offer one food at a time. When adding several foods to the plate at one time, the person needing dementia care will need to make decisions. Add one item and when that is finished, add another. If the person is struggling with the task of putting the food on the fork, you can offer verbal cues, one step at a time. If they are still having difficulty, offer hand-over-hand assistance to show them how the task is completed. There may be times when finger foods are a better solution.

Creating a mealtime that is enjoyable and easy to navigate is key in supporting the person living with dementia. By following these tips, you will increase the likelihood of this time of day being a peaceful event spent with family and friends.  Of course, there may be times when additional accommodation will be necessary. Creative solutions to improving intake are available and the same strategy that works well for one person may not work for another. Each person has different strengths and needs so seek guidance from a professional when you find mealtimes are a struggle.  

If you are interested in dementia care or education for you and your family, please connect with our services at http://www.wellnessstrategiesgroup.com/services/.