When it happens Beginning of moderate-stage dementia onward
Why it happens Brain changes impair the ability to weigh information and make decisions.
What you can do
Don't wait for the person to order first, even if he or she is your guest.
Don't put the person on the spot by asking more than once what he or she would like.
Talk through some of the choices as you read the menu.
Home in on one thing you know the person likes: "Oh look, the special today is your favorite sandwich. Sound good?"
Order for the other person, in a casual way: "I'd like the salmon, and my mother has decided she'll have the special." Or, "We'll all order the soup today."
