Why is my grandmother with dementia eating breakfast three times a day because she forgot?

Grandma’s Breakfast Bonanza: When Dementia Leads to Repeat Meals

Picture this: Your grandmother wakes up, enjoys a hearty breakfast, and then a couple of hours later, she’s back in the kitchen, whipping up another round of eggs and toast. By lunchtime, she’s at it again, preparing her third “breakfast” of the day. What’s going on?

This scenario is actually quite common for people living with dementia. Your grandmother isn’t trying to pull a fast one or secretly indulging her love for pancakes. Instead, her brain is playing tricks on her, making her forget that she’s already eaten.

Dementia messes with the brain’s memory center, making it hard for people to remember recent events. So, your grandma might genuinely believe each time that it’s her first meal of the day. It’s like her brain keeps hitting the reset button, erasing the memory of her previous meals.

This forgetfulness can be frustrating for family members, but it’s important to remember that your grandmother isn’t doing this on purpose. Her brain is struggling to keep track of time and daily routines.

While it might seem harmless to let her enjoy multiple breakfasts, there are some concerns to keep in mind. Overeating can lead to weight gain and digestive issues. Plus, if she’s taking medications that need to be timed with meals, multiple breakfasts could throw off her schedule.

So, what can you do to help? Try creating a visible meal schedule or using a special clock that shows whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner time. Gently remind her that she’s already eaten, but don’t argue if she insists she hasn’t. Instead, offer a small snack or suggest an activity to distract her.

Remember, patience is key. Your grandmother isn’t trying to be difficult – her brain is just having trouble keeping up with the day. With a little understanding and some creative problem-solving, you can help her navigate this breakfast marathon while keeping her healthy and happy.