People living with dementia can sometimes experience difficulties with eating and drinking. These changes can happen for many reasons and may affect appetite, food preferences, mealtimes and the ability to eat independently.
Supporting a person’s comfort and enjoyment of food is often the most important consideration.
Why eating and drinking can become difficult
Eating and drinking problems can occur because of:
- Reduced appetite or loss of interest in food
- Not recognising food, hunger or thirst
- Increased periods of sleeping or drowsiness
- Swallowing difficulties
- Changes in taste
- Difficulty using cutlery or coordinating movements when eating
- Problems with eyesight
- Confusion
- Agitation
- Poor posture when eating or drinking
The reasons can vary from person to person and may change over time.
Encouraging eating and drinking
Offer food little and often
Small meals and snacks offered regularly throughout the day may be easier to manage than larger meals. Try to make the most of times when appetite is at its best.
Include favourite foods
Offering favourite foods can help encourage eating. There is often no need to focus strictly on healthy eating if maintaining food intake is becoming difficult. Foods that the person enjoys may be the best option.
Choose suitable textures
Some people may find softer foods easier to eat. If there are swallowing difficulties, seek advice from a healthcare professional about the most appropriate food and drink textures.
Add extra calories where appropriate
You may be able to increase the calorie content of foods by adding ingredients such as:
- Cream
- Cheese
- Butter
- Full-fat milk
- Milk powder
- Jam
- Honey
- Sugar
Home-made high-calorie milkshakes made with full-fat milk can also help increase calorie intake.
Consider finger foods
If a person finds it difficult to use cutlery, finger foods may be helpful and can encourage greater independence during meals.
Use strong flavours
Sharp-tasting foods and flavours, such as lemon or pineapple, may help stimulate taste buds and relieve a dry mouth.
Creating a positive eating environment
The eating environment can make a significant difference. Consider:
- Keeping distractions to a minimum
- Creating a calm and relaxed atmosphere
- Using plain table settings where possible
- Using plates that contrast with the table and food to make meals easier to see
- Ensuring glasses, hearing aids and dentures are available and being used if required
These simple changes can help people focus on eating and drinking more comfortably.
Helping someone to eat and drink
When supporting a person during mealtimes:
- Explain what food or drink you are offering.
- Sit the person upright and encourage a comfortable eating position.
- Allow plenty of time for eating and swallowing.
- Use gentle prompts and encouragement if needed.
- Check for food being stored in the mouth or cheeks.
- Use suitable utensils, such as adapted cutlery if helpful.
- Consider plates designed to keep food warmer for longer.
- Maintain good mouth care and ensure dentures fit comfortably.
Support should be tailored to the individual’s needs, preferences and abilities.
Remember
For people living with dementia, comfort and enjoyment of food are often more important than meeting specific food or fluid targets. Mealtimes should focus on maintaining dignity, choice and quality of life.
Further advice and support
If you have concerns about eating, drinking, weight loss or swallowing difficulties, speak to a healthcare professional involved in the person’s care.
Dietetics services
- Acute Dietitians: 01324 566626
- Community Dietitians: 01786 434046
Dementia support
Alzheimer Scotland Dementia Helpline
- Freephone: 0808 808 3000
- Available 24 hours a day