Alzheimer’s Disease and The Family Nutrition

Risk of Malnutrition

Mealtime Eating Out Familiar foods Provide foods for special diets Loss of coordination Prepare the patients plate Calm mealtimes

Tips to Increase Appetite Larger breakfast or lunch Many smaller meals Increase physical activity Familiar foods Vitamin mineral supplements

Tips to Overcome Mealtime Confusion Mealtime routine Pleasant surroundings Ample time One food at a time

Tips to Overcome Eating Problems Stubborn Look for clues to eating difficulties Privacy Remove non-nutrient foods

Dealing with messiness Plastic coverings Special utensils Prevent burns Delivered meal services

Tips to Increases Food intake if Chewing and Swallowing are Problems Correct fitting dentures Moisten food Use fluids with meals Soft meat alternative Mashing foods Cut food small pieces Puree regularly prepared foods

Tips to Increase Food Intake if Taste and Smell Decline Try different textures Use more spices Serve foods at body temperature Serve colorful foods Check temperatures before serving

Conclusion

Summary A useful way to remember nutritional support for Alzheimer’s patients is “MEALTIMES”.

M-Maintain a routine E-Eat well-balanced meals A-Alertness to any nutritional problems L-Light and frequent meals T- Teach the caregiver how to deal with the patient I-interactions between drugs and nutrients M-Minimize contusion for the patient E-Encourage patient to eat S-Supplement the diet when necessary