Nutrition and Alzheimer's Disease

In this article

• Remember the Basics
• Mind the Medications
• Preventing Constipation
• Ease Dry Mouth
• Watch for Weight Loss

Watch for Weight Loss

People with Alzheimer’s may feel less hungry or thirsty, have problems chewing or swallowing, have trouble using utensils or feeding themselves, or make bad food choices. This raises the chance that they won’t eat enough and will lose too much weight.

To help your loved one keep up her weight and get the right nutrients:

• Offer smaller meals or snacks more often. Eating five or six times a day may be easier than getting the same amount of food in three meals.
• Give her a daily multivitamin.
• Help her focus on the more nutritious, higher-calorie foods in the meal first.
• Prepare things that are easy to eat. Good options are bite-sized finger foods, like chicken nuggets, tuna sandwiches, orange slices, and steamed broccoli.
• Make meals enjoyable. If lunch or dinner is a social event, she may look forward to it and eat better.
• Trouble chewing or swallowing could be a choking risk, so talk to her doctor if she has a hard time. He can recommend a special diet or foods that are easier to eat.
• Use utensils or dishes that are easier to handle. A spoon and bowl may be betterthan a fork and plate.
• Exercise can boost appetite. Encourage your loved one to take walks, garden, or do simple chores to stay active.
• Not feeling hungry and weight changes can also be signs of depression. Talk to her doctor if you think this might be a problem.

If you need help building a meal plan, a dietitian can help you find ways to make eating healthy and easy for your loved one. Ask the doctor to recommend one.