How do I feed someone with Alzheimer's?

Feeding someone with Alzheimer’s is often difficult and frustrating. At Right at Home, it is a challenge we see frequently. The solutions can vary with each person. Our See also:
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See all 778 questions about Alzheimer's and Other Dementias specialized Alzheimer’s/dementia caregivers follow a process of trying many different approaches until they identify what works for that individual. I recommend trying these approaches to help your loved one eat better:

• Discuss the meal with your loved one beforehand so he knows when he is eating and what he is eating. Eat together when possible.
• Don’t give too many choices.
• Limit distractions during meals.
• Let him take his time while eating.
• Use colorful plates that contrast with the foods so they are easier to see.
• Use appropriate utensils. Sometimes straws, smaller spoons, modified handles and special cups or plates help.
• Monitor your loved one’s chewing and swallowing, and look for denture issues if appropriate.
• Increase the amount of exercise he gets. This may make him hungrier, which will make him much more receptive to eating.
• Monitor your loved one’s medications and be aware of their side effects, such as a loss of appetite.
• Don’t worry about cleanliness or how long it takes.

Every person is different. When trying new approaches with your loved one, it may help to keep a record of when he eats, what he eats and what works well at that meal so you can make sure he is eating as he should. For more about helping your loved one with Alzheimer’s eat better, visit the Alzheimer’s Association's Eating page.

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How to feed someone with Alzheimer’s is confusing. They often don’t remember if they have eaten, or they become adverse to some foods and get to be picky eaters. Later in the disease, they may have choking issues.

Their brain doesn’t tell them to chew well, or they won’t or can’t drink liquids. It’s a good idea to talk to a doctor about this, as nutrition is important and also you don’t want them choking. So how to feed someone with Alzheimer’s is something that will keep evolving.