Dementia, a progressive decline in cognitive abilities, influences thinking, memory and the ability to perform regular activities. While dementia has no cure, a healthy, well-balanced diet plays a vital role in managing it. This goes beyond physical health; a balanced diet impacts cognitive function and by adopting a holistic care approach that addresses cognitive and emotional needs, caregivers can significantly improve the quality of life in elders with dementia.
ASPECTS TO COVER FOR NOURISHMENT AND WELL-BEING By adhering to proper dietary guidelines, we can support the nourishment and overall well-being of elders with dementia. Here are some foods that may be beneficial:
Nutrient-rich foods ” Fruits and vegetables: Working as a prime source of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, fruits and vegetables may help protect brain cells. ” Whole grains: Whole grains provide sustained energy and fiber to elders, and help them in digestion. Brown rice, quinoa and whole-wheat bread are considered to be suitable options. ” Lean proteins: As protein is essential for muscle health and brain function, the inclusion of lean meats, fish, poultry, beans and lentils in the diet can prove to be helpful for elders. Adequate hydration Dehydration can heavily deteriorate cognitive function and may lead to confusion and disorientation in elders with dementia. Since it is a must for them to take sufficient amounts of fluid every day, it is advisable to offer water frequently throughout the day, even if they don’t express thirst. Consider flavoured water, infused water with fruits or herbs, or milkshakes as alternatives. Social dining It is commonly known that eating with others promotes social interaction, and for elders with dementia, it is specifically crucial for mental well-being. A calm and relaxed dining environment can encourage conversation during meals, ultimately helping the elders. Incorporate brain-boosting foods Certain nutrients are known to have a better impact on the brain health of elders with dementia. It is advisable to consider foods that are rich in ” Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fatty fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds, Omega-3 Fatty Acids support cognitive function in elders and may improve their memory ” Vitamin B12: Essential for nerve function, Vitamin B12 is found in meat, fish, dairy products and fortified cereals. ” Vitamin D: Deficiency in Vitamin D has been linked to cognitive decline. It is thus advisable to include milk, eggs and fatty fish in the diet of elders. Adapt to progression of dementia Understanding the dietary needs of elders with dementia is crucial as the condition progresses. In the early stages, it is ideal to establish healthy eating habits, focusing on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. These foods provide essential nutrients, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that support cognitive function. As dementia advances to the middle stage, caregivers should prepare easyto-eat meals with softer foods divided into manageable pieces, as this helps with changes in appetite and swallowing difficulties. Visually appealing and consistently textured meals can help reduce agitation and improve meal acceptance. In the later stages, when dementia becomes more severe, it is essential to address the challenges of appetite loss and swallowing difficulties. Prioritizing thickened fluids, pureed foods, and high-calorie, nutrient-rich options like fortified cereals, mashed potatoes, or creamy soups can help ensure adequate nutrition and support overall well-being. Caring for elders with dementia requires a holistic approach, with diet being a critical pillar. A balanced diet rich in green leafy vegetables, fruits, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, and lean proteins should be part of their daily regimen. It is important to avoid processed foods, high sugar, and saturated fats. As dementia progresses, dietary patterns and appetite often change. Serving a brain healthy MIND diet (Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) can significantly improve their quality of life. The MIND diet is a hybrid of the DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) and the Mediterranean diet. Nutritional care involves understanding personal preferences, creating a distraction-free environment, using appropriate crockery and cutlery, and providing the right assistance. Proper hydration is crucial, especially in hot weather. Offering beverages like jeera buttermilk, coconut water, freshly made fruit smoothies, and fresh lime water or the healthy drink they might prefer throughout the day helps maintain hydration. Compassion and care in dietary management can lead to nourishing and enjoyable experiences, promoting wellbeing throughout the dementia journey. A thoughtful approach to nutrition not only ensures health but also plays a vital role in engagement, mood upliftment, and motivation, significantly enhancing the quality of life for elders with dementia. (The author, Neha Sinha, is the CEO and Co-founder of Epoch Elder Care.) D
