A diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease doesn't require a special diet in itself. However, the symptoms of dementia and decreased cognition that accompany Alzheimer's may negatively impact a patient's diet and nutrition. Ensuring that an Alzheimer's patient eats regularly and nutritiously may require some mealtime modifications and adjustments.
About Alzheimer's
Alzheimer's disease is a brain disorder that affects 5.4 million Americans, according to the Alzheimer's Association. Late-onset Alzheimer's, occurring after age 60, is the most common form of the disease. Symptoms include memory loss, difficulty in tasks of daily life, trouble planning and problem solving, confusion involving time and location and difficulty with familiar tasks. The degeneration of the brain with plaques and tangles increases with time and increases these symptoms. With increased symptoms, caregivers are often required for people affected by Alzheimer's.
Meals and Alzheimer's Basics
Mealtimes are just one of the daily tasks affected by Alzheimer's disease. Without proper nutrition, the life of an Alzheimer's patient can grow increasingly difficult, as they become weakened and prone to other health problems, including dehydration, weight loss and malnutrition. A specific diet plan is not required, but, like for any adult, a healthy, balanced diet is recommended. This means a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and adequate amounts of protein, dairy and healthy fats. Elderly people have a reduced smell and taste for foods, and this is more pronounced with Alzheimer's disease. Chewing and digesting food may also be affected by aging. These factors should be taken in consideration when planning meals for an Alzheimer's patient.
Early Alzheimer's Nutrition Tips
In early Alzheimer's, when a regular caregiver isn't required, patients may forget that food is in the oven or forget to eat altogether. Detailed instructions, written and verbal, are important at this stage. Cooking meals for someone with Alzheimer's is also helpful, as is a reminder call on when to prepare and eat meals. Alzheimer's patients are often most alert in the morning, so encouraging a big and healthy breakfast is a good idea.
Advanced Alzheimer's Nutrition Tips
As the brain deteriorates and symptoms of Alzheimer's increases, damage in the brain may lead to extreme eating behavior -- excessive eating or no eating at all. Brain nerve cell damage may also lead to reduced hunger cues, inability to use utensils and loss of interest in food. Some tips for caregivers during this challenging time include using large-handled utensils, serving foods one at a time, serving finger foods and checking food temperature. Serve food on bright red or blue plates to offer contrast between the food and the plate. Eating together and offering plenty of time to eat can also encourage Alzheimer's patients to eat.
