Malnutrition and Alzheimer's disease

One of the most disturbing aspects of Alzheimer's disease is the problems associated with eating and drinking.

Very often alzheimer disease sufferers develop food fads though it is mainly later in the disease that severe malnutrition can occur. It's difficult to make an adult eat especially if they are stronger than you or they have developed a fear or severe dislike to what you are trying to give them. It can be a very difficult situation for carers to find themselves in.

It's important to ensure the alzheimer sufferer receives a well balanced nourishing diet. It's also important that special attention is paid to adequate fluid intake. Fluid is an integral part of anyone's diet, and as the alzheimer sufferer will often forget or not bother to ask for a drink.

It's relatively easy to not realise their fluid intake is insufficient, especially in hot weather or if the central heating is on full blast. Drinks should be offered on a regular basis, and a cold drink left nearby to remind the Alzheimer sufferer to take fluids. An excellent way of ensuring vitamin C is consumed, is offering orange juice.

Fruit and vegetables provide the vitamins and fibre needed to keep the body well nourished. Further fibre can be obtained by consuming wholegrain bread and biscuits.

If the alzheimer sufferer spits out their food or refuses to eat, this will need further investigation. They may have some gum disease or intestinal problem. Their dentures may have become loose fitting (especially if they have lost weight), or they may have lost their sensation of taste.

They may also have some difficulty in swallowing which would need further investigation as this could be a sign of more serious problems.

It's also a good idea to ensure the alzheimer disease sufferer has been having their bowels open on a regular basis. Constipation is one of the leading causes of loss of appetite in many alzheimer disease sufferers, and if not treated can lead on to more serious problems. Regular medication (aperients) can be given for this which softens the stool and encourages the person to expel it. Try and stay away from the more harsh aperients until it is absolutely necessary. These encourage the bowel to become sluggish and lazy.

Constipation is another reason why lots of fluid intake is important. Fluid helps to soften the stool and makes its passing much easier.

Alzheimer's Disease Guide

Alzheimers Disease
History of Alzheimer's Disease
Types of Dementia
Risk Factors for Alzheimer's Disease
Diagnosing Alzheimer's Disease
Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease
Memory loss in Alzheimers disease
Disorientation and Alzheimers Disease
Disorientation and Alzheimers disease in the home
Alzheimers Disease and Personality
Alzheimer’s disease and Communication
Alzheimer’s disease and sexual behaviour
Alzheimers disease and Risk
Sleep and Alzheimer Disease
Malnutrition and Alzheimer’s disease