How to Stimulate Appetite in Individuals with Dementia

When someone with dementia loses interest in food or forgets to eat, it can feel concerning and stressful for caregivers. Mealtime challenges are common, but with some thoughtful adjustments, you can make eating a more inviting and enjoyable experience. Let’s look at how you can gently encourage their appetite while respecting their individual needs.

Why Appetite Changes in Dementia

There are many reasons why someone with dementia might eat less than they used to. It’s not just about taste; changes in the brain can make recognizing hunger or even noticing food more difficult.

Here are some common factors:

• Diminished Taste and Smell: Food might not seem as flavorful or appealing.

• Difficulty Recognizing Hunger: They may not realize they need to eat.

• Physical Discomfort: Dental issues or a dry mouth can make eating unpleasant.

Understanding these underlying causes is the first step toward helping them enjoy meals again.

Tips to Gently Encourage and Stimulate Appetite

1. Serve Smaller, Frequent Meals

A large plate of food can feel overwhelming. Instead, try offering smaller portions on smaller plates throughout the day. This can make eating feel less intimidating and more manageable.

2. Offer Their Favorite Foods

Comfort foods can go a long way. Serve dishes you know they’ve loved in the past. Familiar flavors can rekindle their interest in eating and bring a sense of joy to mealtime.

3. Boost Flavors Naturally

If food tastes bland to them, try enhancing the flavors with herbs and spices. A dash of cinnamon or a squeeze of lemon can brighten a dish without being overpowering.

4. Make Meals Look Inviting

How food is presented matters more than you might think. A colorful plate can capture their attention by increasing contrast which makes the food stand out. Putting food items in containers of fast food places they like may motivate them to eat more.

5. Create a Relaxing Mealtime Atmosphere

A calm, peaceful environment can make all the difference. Turn off the TV, minimize distractions, and sit with them during meals. They will recall what to do by watching you. Your presence and a gentle tone can help them feel more relaxed and willing to eat.

6. Address Physical Comfort

If they’re experiencing dry mouth, dental pain, or other physical issues, take steps to address these barriers.

When to Seek Support

If appetite challenges persist, it’s okay to ask for help. A healthcare provider or dietitian can offer insights and suggest specific interventions, such as appetite stimulants or nutritional supplements, to ensure they’re getting what they need. Speech language pathologists can help assess and treat any issues with swallowing which may limit their intake.

It's important to know that over the course of dementia, it is expected for appetite changes to occur. At the end of life, a person's body will desire food and drink less and less. In this case, these tips may not work. However, for others who get a little distracted or overwhelmed, smaller meals, familiar foods, and a calming environment can make mealtime a more positive experience for both of you.