Dementia and mealtimes

Why eating can change

Dementia affects memory, attention and how the brain plans movement. Eating uses all three.

A person may forget to chew or swallow, or get distracted. Swallowing itself can change too.

What you might notice

• Holding food in the mouth or cheeks for a long time.
• Forgetting to chew, or chewing without swallowing.
• Coughing at meals, or a wet voice after drinking.
• Eating very fast, or very slowly.
• Not knowing what to do with the food in front of them.
• Eating less, or losing weight.

What can help

These ideas come from dementia care groups. Try what fits the person you care for.

• Keep the room calm and quiet. Turn off the TV.
• Keep the table simple. A plate that stands out from the table can help.
• Offer one food at a time.
• Show what to do. Take a bite yourself, or give one short cue at a time.
• Finger foods can help a person keep feeding themselves.
• Check the temperature of food and drinks first.
• Help them sit upright, with the head slightly forward.
• Allow plenty of time. Eating together can help.
• After the meal, check the mouth for food left behind.

Weighing the options

Softer foods or thicker drinks help some people. They can also make meals less appealing, so weigh both.

A swallow check can show what is happening. You and the person can then weigh the options together.

Look after yourself too

Helping someone eat takes time and patience, several times a day. Feeling tired or worried is common.

Ask family or friends to take some meals. Caregiver support groups can help too.

Questions to ask your care team

• Is this a swallowing change, or more about attention and memory?
• Would a swallow check help? What would it involve for them?
• What are the pros and cons of changing textures?
• Could any of their medicines affect eating or alertness?
• What matters most to them about meals, and how can we keep it?

When to get help

Get checked soon if you notice any of these. A doctor or SLP can look at what is going on.

You know your own body best. Bring what you notice to your care team, and decide together.

• Coughing or choking when you eat or drink.
• Food or pills that feel stuck.
• Losing weight without trying.
• Pneumonia or chest infections, especially if they come back.