Malnutrition and dehydration are
common among those living with dementia; studies have shown that up to 45
percent of those living with dementia experience poor food intake and
subsequent weight loss. Malnutrition and dehydration can negatively impact
quality of life, but new research shows taking a different approach to
mealtimes can help.
In this study, the research team
reviewed and assessed the effectiveness of 56 interventions aimed to improve or
maintain the food and drink intake among more than 2,200 people with dementia.
The team reviewed various intervention methods including changing the color of
eating utensils, increasing exercise, playing music, family-style eating and
boosting the social aspect of eating. In addition, the researchers looked at
whether education for caregivers and behavioral interventions, such as giving
encouragement for eating, would have a positive impact.
There were no clearly effective
or ineffective interventions identified. The interventions that proved
promising included having family-style meals, social interaction during meals,
longer mealtimes, music during mealtime and having snacks available throughout
the day. While more research is needed to confirm these results, it is evident
that there are many elements to consider when feeding individuals with dementia.
Bottom Line: Malnutrition and
dehydration can negatively impact the quality of life for those suffering with
dementia. While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all intervention, social
interaction, engagement, meal patterns, meal timing and atmosphere can all play
a role in the nutritional well-being and the quality of life for those
suffering with dementia or cognitive decline. If you are caring for a loved one
with dementia, make sure meals are served in a calming atmosphere with music, provide
access to snacks, extend meal times and offer social interaction during meals.
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