Dementia is a condition that affects the brain in many ways, and one area where these changes become very noticeable is in how people eat and what they want to eat. As dementia progresses, it can alter appetite, food preferences, and even the ability to recognize when it’s time to eat or when enough is enough.
Some people with dementia may seem hungrier than usual. They might ask for food often or become fixated on certain foods, sometimes eating much more than they used to. This can happen because the parts of the brain that control hunger and fullness aren’t working as they should. In other cases, people might forget they have already eaten and ask for another meal shortly after finishing one.
On the flip side, some individuals lose their appetite entirely. They may forget to eat because their memory problems make it hard to remember mealtimes or even how to prepare food. Chewing and swallowing can also become difficult as dementia advances, making eating less enjoyable or even uncomfortable.
Taste changes are common too. Foods that were once favorites might no longer appeal, while cravings for sweet or salty snacks could increase—sometimes due to changes in taste buds or because these foods provide comfort during confusing times. It’s not unusual for someone with dementia to mix foods together in ways that seem odd but make sense to them at the moment.
Mealtime routines often need adjusting as dementia progresses. Breaking meals into smaller portions served more frequently throughout the day can help manage overeating or undereating. Offering healthy snacks like fruits and vegetables instead of high-calorie treats supports better nutrition without encouraging weight gain.
It’s important for caregivers to be patient and flexible—letting someone enjoy safe but unusual food combinations if it means they will eat enough is usually better than insisting on strict rules about what goes together on a plate.
Changes in eating habits are just one part of living with dementia; understanding them helps families provide better care while keeping meals enjoyable rather than stressful occasions filled with conflict over what should be eaten next
