Eating and drinking require a good deal of cognitive control. That's not usually an issue, but when the brain begins to falter in dementia, such everyday actions become real challenges.
, this automatic process is under the control of our brain, and may not function properly in individuals with dementia. Food may end up in the wrong place in the mouth or throat. Drinking “thin” liquids, such as water, may become difficult.
Regardless of the cause, trouble eating and drinking can lead to choking and aspiration . It is therefore important to let the doctor know if your loved one is having trouble swallowing, and you and other care partners should learn the Heimlich maneuver so you can be prepared if choking occurs. To reduce choking, start by making sure that food is cut into appropriate-sized pieces; help your loved one cut it up, if needed. If your loved one cannot use utensils, consider serving “finger foods” that are usually eaten by hand. Either way, ensure they only put a few pieces of food into their mouth at a time. Encourage them to chew their food adequately prior to swallowing. If they don’t chew properly, you may need to cut their food into smaller-than-usual pieces or to puree their food.
If your loved one is choking despite these measures, ask their doctor for a swallowing evaluation, which typically includes a “video swallow” , a consultation with a speech-language pathologist, or both. An appointment with a dietitian can also help you think through how your loved one can eat healthy foods despite their difficulty eating.
Most individuals eventually need to be fed as their dementia progresses. Although this activity may not sound appealing, many families find that nourishing their loved one can be a tender, intimate experience that they either don’t mind or actually enjoy.
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