Making Mealtimes More Enjoyable
Mealtimes are important times for the elderly or ill because they provide a welcome diversion in the day. During holidays meal times are a nice opportunity to socialize. If it is not too distracting have the person in your care eat with the family or others. Expect and ignore spills and less-than-perfect manners. Play music and dress up the table. It is important that mealtimes are enjoyable to encourage eating.
For Best Results at Mealtimes
- Allow 30-45 minutes for eating.
- Avoid cluttered meal presentation.
- Make sure all items are ready to eat and within reach.
- Provide a consistent, comfortable table/chair or other eating arrangement.
- Supply easy-to-hold eating utensils. To avoid cuts, throw out all chipped cups and plates.
- Minimize excess noise such as television and radio.
- If vision is poor, be consistent with where food is placed on the plate.
Feeding Someone in Bed
1. Prop the head with pillows.
2. Provide an over-the-bed table.
3. Do not rush feeding, but maintain a steady pace.
4. Cut the food into bite-size portions.
5. Explain what food is served.
6. Fill cups only half full.
7. Let the person hold the cup if she wants to.
8. Use available eating aids e.g., mugs with two handles, swivel spoons, plate guards and rocker knives.
9. Keep a moistened hand towel to gently wipe the person’s mouth and hands.
Alzheimer’s and Mealtime
1. Name the food being offered.
2. If the person plays with food, limit the choices being offered. (Sometimes a person is confused and unable to make choices.)
3. Check the temperature of the food.
4. Be gentle with forks and spoons. (Try a rubber-tipped baby spoon.)
5. Feed at a steady pace, alternating food and drink.
6. Remove a spoon from the person’s mouth very slowly. If the person clenches the spoon, let go of it and wait for the jaw to relax.
7. Give simple instructions such as “open your mouth,” “move your tongue,” “now swallow.”
8. If the person spits food out or refuses food, provide a drink and return in 10 minutes with the food tray.
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