Alzheimer's disease is a type of dementia that affects thinking, behavior and memory. It typically runs a course of 10 years or more, ending in death. Some patients with Alzheimer's disease benefit from a high-calorie diet while others can maintain a healthy diet of normal caloric intake. Begin a high-calorie diet only under a physician's guidance.
Rationale
Some Alzheimer's patients require a high-calorie diet because their disease process causes them to wander or pace excessively, burning a large number of calories. Others need a high-calorie diet because they have become malnourished and emaciated due to poor eating habits. Often, an individual has lived alone in the early stages of Alzheimer's and no one realized she wasn't eating properly. She may have forgotten to eat or forgotten how to shop for and prepare food. These patients often benefit by a modest calorie increase until their weight falls within normal parameters.
Method
Offer small, frequent meals and snacks, and limit access to calorie-free beverages other than water. Supply milkshakes or nutritional supplement drinks between meals. Make meal time inviting with low music, good lighting and a relaxed atmosphere. The Alzheimer's Association suggests you eat with the patient if possible. Direct conversation to pleasant topics that don't require thought-out responses. Talk about how good the food tastes and how much you like eating it. Offer finger foods, if necessary, or feed the patient if he cannot feed himself, using condiments he prefers, such as pepper or jelly.
Types of Food
Offer meats, vegetables, fruits, whole milk products and whole grains. Granola cereal, oatmeal, eggs or pancakes are good breakfast options. For lunch, consider chicken, hamburger, fish or a cream-based soup with cooked vegetables. High-calorie dinner ideas include casseroles, baked macaroni and cheese or meat with gravy, served with vegetables and bread. Dessert can be eaten an hour after meals. A fruit and bread dessert, such as peach cobbler, is a good option. Encourage frequent drinks to avoid dehydration. Smoothies or fruit juice can be offered in addition to milkshakes and nutrition supplement drinks.
Playing Favorites
Choose foods the Alzheimer's patient has always enjoyed rather than introducing new foods. Offer two choices when possible if his appetite is poor. Add margarine, sauce, cream, nuts, honey or molasses to increase caloric intake.
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