People suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia frequently consume less than they used to. This might be related to medical issues with chewing, swallowing, or digesting food.
There are also some people who just lose interest in food. This can occur for a variety of reasons, including loss of taste, loss of smell, memory loss, and believing they have already eaten. In addition, certain drugs might also have an impact on appetite, causing them to eat less.
The ability and desire to eat deteriorate as the disease progresses. Therefore, making sure that someone living with dementia eats a nutrient-filled and healthy meal, or eats enough, may become a major emotional and practical issue for the caregiver.
The article explores three ways memory care in Laurinburg, NC helps Alzheimer’s patients with poor appetite.
The Plate Color Matters
Researchers at Boston University revealed that patients who ate from red plates ate 25% more food compared to those who ate from white plates in a trial. This appears to be related to how someone suffering from dementia perceives food on a plate. If you are unable to see the meal because it is against a white background, you’re less inclined to consume it.
Because dementia patients sometimes have difficulty discriminating between colors, the introduction of color helps to generate interest in dementia patients. People with dementia may struggle to discern the contrast between the two and realize there is food to be eaten if the food is too near to the color palette of the dish.
Memory care in Laurinburg, NC uses a superb collection of creative tableware developed for persons suffering from dementia or memory issues.
Make Eating Easier
There is a significant probability that eating will become a concern for dementia sufferers at some point in their lives. Utensil use may also become more challenging. Memory care in Laurinburg, NC considers finger food to encourage regular eating, in small amounts, and frequently.
Raspberries, strawberries, bananas, and grapes are outstanding examples with dramatic contrasting colors. Almonds and Brazil nuts are also high in protein and vital lipids.
Be Patient
Memory care in Laurinburg, NC makes sure that your loved ones are as comfortable as possible at the table by allowing them to concentrate solely on the meal without distractions.
Team members sit in front of them at the table, create eye contact, smile, and wait for them to return the grin. Team members would begin eating without speaking and try to be silent, patient, maintain eye contact, and wait for them to follow the example.
Additionally, if it is required, team members will show your loved ones how to eat each and every bite as though this is their first time eating. Patience is key when it comes to dealing with memory loss and forgetfulness.Â
It might be discouraging when efforts to assist someone are not yielding the desired results. That is why it feels good to leave it in the hands of the professionals who are experts in their field.
