Tool Kit. Strategies to facilitate eating and swallowing in people living with early-stage dementia
48 Eating is more than a biological process: The eating environment can include decorations or ambiance that reference the person’s food preferences or a color that they find pleasing, and that contributes to good lighting, for example. Principles Involved in Environment for Eating Effective communication: The person living with dementia can be consulted about the ambiance and express preferences regarding decoration or other aspects of the environment and comfort, especially textures. It is important to provide options and the possibility to change anything that may discomfort them. Use simple language and ask about one thing at a time. Signs of attention or urgency: In many cases, the person will need the environment’s characteristics to adapt to their needs. It is important to pay attention to the food and eating activity and aspects of the environment that could affect and facilitate the eating activity. Occupational therapists, designers, or architects may be consulted to implement these modifications.
Made with FlippingBook
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy Mzc3MTg=