Tool Kit. Strategies to facilitate eating and swallowing in people living with early-stage dementia

32 Eating is more than a biological process: It is important to consider the person’s food preferences and avoid those we know they dislike. Food preferences are also linked to memory, emotions, and personal experiences. Principles Involved in Nutrition Effective communication: Based on the foods available at home, inquire about the person’s preferences by asking directly about two options: “Do you prefer boiled or mashed potatoes?” These types of questions make it easier for the person to respond, unlike open-ended questions such as “What do you want to eat?” You can also show pictures of the available food types at home or present the food directly. It’s important not to forbid things consistently but to seek and offer alternatives that are more nutritious and easier to eat. Signs of attention or urgency: Consulting healthcare professionals is important in case of sudden weight changes, gastrointestinal discomfort such as vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, persistent constipation, lack of energy, or constant fatigue that may suggest malnutrition.