Make Meals Fun for a Parent With Alzheimer’s Using These Simple Steps

Senior Care in Ridgewood NJ: Make Meals Fun for a Parent With Alzheimer’s Using These Simple Steps

In the early stages of Alzheimer’s meals generally are not a problem. As the disease advances, however, you may find your parent refusing to eat. This is concerning, but there are steps you can take to make meals fun when your parent has Alzheimer’s.

Color Matters

One of the things that changes with Alzheimer’s is that it’s harder for the senior to correctly see colors. The chicken breast on a white plate that is so clearly there may not be obvious to someone with Alzheimer’s disease. The green beans on an avocado colored plate also blend into the plate’s color so much that your mom or dad just cannot see them. Alzheimer’s patients need a lot of contrast in order to clearly see an item on a plate.

Keep Meals Simple

Don’t frustrate your parent with multiple foods on one plate. Create simple meals with no more than two food items per plate. This may mean splitting up dinner on many plates, but if it keeps your parent from refusing to eat, it’s the path to take.

Expect the Unexpected

When creating a meal plan for a parent with Alzheimer’s, stick to foods you know your parent loves. If fresh strawberries have always been a favorite, serve them often. You also need to listen for clues as to what your parent no longer enjoys. It’s normal for a person with Alzheimer’s to develop a strong aversion to a former favorite. Don’t argue, simply stop serving that item and move on.

Don’t Be Afraid to Step Outside the Box

Sometimes your mom or dad may simply not remember what meal it is and ask for lunch at breakfast. Don’t make this into an issue. Simply put together a lunch and let your parent eat that for breakfast. You can switch meals later in the day if necessary.

Create a Soothing Environment

When your parent has Alzheimer’s it’s likely that a lot of activity and noise is alarming. Make meal times calm and soothing. Meals can take far longer than you’re used to, but do not rush your parent. If the meal lasts an hour, enjoy having your mom or dad there for the extended family meal.

Keep a journal that details what your mom or dad likes and dislikes. This information helps others who spend time with your parent understand how to handle meals. Whether it’s a senior care provider spending hours each day or an at-home senior care professional who comes in to give you a break, they can use your notes to ensure meal times go smoothly.

If you or a senior family member are considering senior care in Ridgewood, NJ,  please contact the caring staff at Caring Solutions Home Care LLC.  In-home senior care servicing Bergen & Passaic Counties. Call today (973) 427-3553.

Sources:

https://psychcentral.com/lib/improving-alzheimers-and-dementia-care-the-eyes-have-it/