Dementia Comfort Meals: Finding Well-Being in Food

A warm bowl of soup on a cold day, the smell of cookies baking in the oven, a shared holiday meal with family. Food is so much more than just fuel; it’s a source of comfort, a trigger for memories, and a powerful way to connect with the people we love. This connection becomes even more meaningful when caring for someone living with dementia. 

Mealtimes can often become a source of stress and confusion for both care partners and those they support. But with a little understanding and compassion, they can be transformed into moments of joy and connection. At Bella Groves, we believe in the power of dementia comfort meals to create positive, meaningful experiences. Dementia changes people’s brains, so it’s time for us to change our hearts. 

We are here to walk alongside you, offering guidance, dementia education, and support to help make every meal a dignified and comforting experience.

Understanding How Dementia Affects Eating

It can be confusing and disheartening when a family member who once enjoyed a hearty appetite suddenly shows little interest in food. Dementia can lead to significant changes in eating habits, and understanding them is the first step toward better support.

• Changes in Taste and Smell: Dementia can alter the senses, making familiar foods taste bland or even unpleasant. A person might develop new preferences, often leaning toward sweeter flavors because the ability to taste sweet things tends to last longer.
• Loss of Appetite: Forgetting when they last ate, feeling overwhelmed by too many choices, or even depression can lead to decreased appetite. Some medications can also have this side effect.
• Difficulty Recognizing Food: As dementia progresses, a person might not recognize the food on their plate or understand what to do with it. This isn’t a sign of being difficult; it’s a genuine cognitive challenge.
• Physical Challenges: Difficulties with chewing, swallowing (dysphagia), or using utensils can make eating a physically demanding task. This can lead to frustration and a refusal to eat.

Recognizing these changes as symptoms of the condition, rather than willful behavior, can help you approach mealtimes with more patience and empathy.

Creating a Comfortable Dining Space

The environment where a meal is shared can have a huge impact on the experience. A calm, familiar, and supportive setting can encourage your family member to eat and make the process more enjoyable for everyone.

• Reduce Distractions: A noisy or busy environment can be overstimulating. Turn off the television, put away phones, and create a quiet space dedicated to the meal. This helps your loved one focus on the task of eating.
• Set a Simple Table: A cluttered table can be confusing. Use a plain-colored plate that contrasts with the food to make it easier to see. For example, serve mashed potatoes on a dark plate rather than a white one. Limit the utensils to only what is necessary for the meal.
• Promote Independence: Encourage self-feeding for as long as possible to maintain dignity and a sense of control. Adaptive utensils with built-up handles or plate guards can be incredibly helpful. If you need to assist, do so with patience and gentle guidance.
• Stick to a Routine: Familiarity brings comfort. Try to serve meals at the same time and in the same place each day. A predictable routine can reduce anxiety and help regulate their internal clock for hunger.

The Role of the Care Partner at Mealtimes

As a care partner, your presence and approach can set the tone for the entire meal. Your goal is to create a supportive, pressure-free atmosphere where your family member feels safe and cared for.

• Offer Simple Choices: Instead of asking an open-ended question like, “What do you want for dinner?”, offer a simple choice between two options. For example, “Would you like chicken or fish?” This gives them a sense of control without being overwhelming.
• Serve Familiar Favorites: Prepare foods that have positive associations from their past. The taste and smell of a beloved childhood dish can evoke powerful feelings of comfort and happiness, even if they can’t articulate the memory.
• Eat Together: Sharing a meal fosters connection. Sit down and eat with your family member whenever possible. Your actions can provide a visual cue, reminding them how to eat and making the experience a shared social activity rather than a chore.
• Focus on Connection, Not Consumption: Some days will be better than others. If your family member doesn’t eat much, try not to show your frustration. Focus on the time spent together. A few bites in a pleasant atmosphere are better than a clean plate achieved through stress and conflict. Remember, the power of positivity can go a long way in dementia care. 

Finding Hope and Support on Your Journey

Caring for someone with dementia is a journey of deep love and profound challenges. Mealtimes, including dementia comfort meals, are an essential part of this journey. They offer a unique opportunity to provide nourishment, stimulate the senses, and create moments of connection. 

Remember that you are not alone. At Bella Groves, we have a higher calling than just “taking care” of people. Our purpose is to build a community of unconditional joy. If you’re facing the challenges of dementia care, we’re here to support you. Contact us today to learn more about dementia comfort meals, our dementia education resources, and how we can support you and your family.