What should I do if my loved one with Alzheimer’s refuses to eat new foods
### Helping Your Loved One with Alzheimer’s Refuse New Foods
If your loved one with Alzheimer’s is refusing to eat new foods, it can be a challenging and concerning situation. Here are some steps you can take to address this issue and ensure their comfort and well-being.
#### 1. **Understand the Reason**
First, it’s essential to understand why your loved one might be refusing new foods. In the later stages of Alzheimer’s, people often lose their appetite and may not feel hunger as they once did. This can be due to the body’s natural response to the disease, where the brain’s ability to process food and recognize hunger is impaired[1][3].
#### 2. **Consult with Healthcare Providers**
Talk to your loved one’s healthcare providers about their refusal to eat. They can help determine if there are any underlying medical issues that need to be addressed, such as infections or other health problems. If there are no infections, then not eating can be a recognized part of the final stages of dementia[3].
#### 3. **Offer Familiar Foods**
Stick to familiar foods that your loved one enjoys. Even if they are not eating much, offering their favorite foods can make mealtime more enjoyable and increase the likelihood of them consuming something. You can also try different textures and consistencies of food, such as pureed or soft foods, which might be easier to manage[1][3].
#### 4. **Avoid Forcing Food**
Forcing your loved one to eat can lead to complications like choking or aspiration pneumonia. It’s crucial to respect their decision and not force them to eat if they are not interested. Instead, focus on making mealtime a positive experience by engaging in conversation and creating a comfortable atmosphere[1][3].
#### 5. **Use Sensory Stimulation**
Sometimes, people with Alzheimer’s may not eat due to sensory issues. Try using different colors, smells, and tastes to make mealtime more appealing. For example, you can use brightly colored plates or add a favorite scent to the food[4].
#### 6. **Encourage Hydration**
Even if your loved one is not eating much, it’s crucial to ensure they stay hydrated. Offer water or other fluids frequently throughout the day. You can also try adding flavor to their water with a slice of lemon or a few sprigs of mint[1].
#### 7. **Focus on Comfort Care**
In the later stages of Alzheimer’s, the focus often shifts from trying to manage symptoms to ensuring comfort and quality of life. If your loved one is not eating, it may be a sign that their body is preparing to shut down. In such cases, hospice care can provide the necessary support to keep them comfortable and pain-free[1].
### Conclusion
Helping your loved one with Alzheimer’s who refuses new foods requires patience, understanding, and a focus on comfort care. By sticking to familiar foods, avoiding forced feeding, and ensuring hydration, you can make mealtime more enjoyable and supportive. If your loved one is in the final stages of the disease, it may be time to consider hospice care to ensure their comfort and well-being. Always consult with healthcare providers for personalized advice and support.
