Alzheimer’s affects every senior differently, but one of the most common changes that Alzheimer’s causes is a change in appetite. Your mom or dad may forget how to eat, or they may develop sensory issues that make them dislike foods with certain textures.
March is National Nutrition Month, a great time to learn more about how to make sure that your mom or dad is getting the nutrition they need if they have Alzheimer’s. A great way to make sure that your mom or dad doesn’t become malnourished is to get them Alzheimer’s care at home.
Alzheimer’s care at home means that a skilled and experienced care provider who has worked with seniors who have Alzheimer’s before will visit your mom or dad daily to help them stay well.
Professionals who specialize in Alzheimer’s care know how to recognize the signs of malnutrition in seniors. And because they know how Alzheimer’s affects seniors and their ability to eat they know how to make sure that your mom or dad is getting enough to eat.
You might be surprised to learn about the changes in appetite and food recognition that Alzheimer’s can cause like:
Failure to Recognize Familiar Foods
As Alzheimer’s progresses, seniors may have trouble recognizing familiar foods, even ones they used to love. Their brain may no longer connect the sight of certain foods with the memory of their taste and smell.
For example, a senior who always enjoyed chicken soup might look at a bowl of it and not understand what it is. This confusion can make them hesitant to eat because they don’t trust the food in front of them.
Changes in Taste and Smell
Alzheimer’s can affect the senses, including taste and smell. Foods that once smelled delicious may seem bland or even unpleasant. Some seniors may lose their sense of taste almost completely, making food unappealing.
Others may develop strange cravings, like wanting very sweet or salty foods while refusing anything else. Because of these changes, seniors with Alzheimer’s may stop eating well-balanced meals, leading to poor nutrition.
Food Texture Aversion
Many seniors with Alzheimer’s develop an aversion to certain food textures. They might dislike crunchy foods like crackers or raw vegetables, or they may struggle with foods that are too soft or mushy.
This could be because their brain has trouble processing different textures, or because they feel uncomfortable chewing and swallowing. If a senior starts avoiding certain foods, caregivers may need to find alternative options with textures they can tolerate.
Forgetfulness and Distracted Eating
Seniors with Alzheimer’s often forget to eat. They may not remember when they last had a meal or think they have already eaten when they haven’t. Some may sit at the table but get distracted and forget to take bites.
Others may start eating and stop halfway through, losing interest in their food. Because of this, they might not get enough calories to stay healthy. Caregivers can help by reminding them when it’s mealtime and making sure they stay focused while eating.
Difficulty Using Utensils
As Alzheimer’s worsens, simple tasks like using a fork or spoon can become frustrating. A senior might struggle to hold utensils or forget how to use them. This can make eating feel like a stressful challenge, leading them to avoid meals altogether. In these cases, finger foods like small sandwiches, sliced fruit, or cheese cubes can make eating easier and more enjoyable.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Alzheimer’s care in Burnsville, MN and the surrounding areas, please contact the friendly staff at CareBuilders at Home Minnesota. Call today 612-260-2273.
