Proper nutrition is essential for all of us, but especially for a person living with dementia. Loss of appetite, difficulties chewing and swallowing, and memory lapses are common challenges faced during mealtime. Maintaining a healthy diet can make a significant difference in how they feel and function each day . So, what kinds of foods and textures are best suited for individuals with dementia?
Dementia-Friendly Foods
For a person with dementia, it’s not only important that they are getting a balanced meal, but also that they are enjoying it. Let’s take a look at some dementia-friendly foods for a happy and healthy mealtime:
High-protein foods
Foods that are high in protein can boost satiety and prevent overeating. Some examples include:
- Nuts and seeds
- Eggs
- Seafood
- Poultry
- Lean meats
Fruits and vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are essential sources of vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber, and antioxidants. Some examples include:
- Berries (strawberries, blackberries, blueberries)
- Pineapple, kiwi, melons
- Leafy greens (spinach, broccoli, cabbage)
- Colorful vegetables (red, yellow, green peppers)
Probiotic foods
Probiotic foods can help aid digestion as well as the absorption of nutrients. Examples include:
- Yogurt
- Sauerkraut
- Cottage cheese
- Kefir
Finger foods
Additionally, finger foods are a stellar option for mealtime. Bite-sized foods that are easy to pick up encourage independence without having to use any utensils. Depending on what is served, a balanced meal can be made from finger foods! Some finger foods include:
- Sandwiches
- Chicken nuggets or tenders
- Fish sticks
- Orange slices
- Cookies
Dementia-Friendly Textures and Diets
Chewing and swallowing often become more difficult as the disease reaches its later stages. This can increase the risk of aspiration, which happens when food or liquid goes into the airway instead of the esophagus. It can lead to different complications, such as airway blockage, infections, and even death.
Soft foods and textures are great for those who have trouble swallowing and further reduce the risk of aspiration. Soft textures can be incorporated into a person with dementia’s meals through a mechanical soft diet or a pureed diet.
A mechanical soft diet is when food is modified into different consistencies to make it easier to chew and swallow. With this diet, you’ll find that most foods are chopped, ground, and pureed. Any food that can break apart without a knife is included in this diet.
A pureed diet, on the other hand, is made up of foods that require no chewing. Pureed foods are entirely smooth, which makes it easier to swallow and digest than actual solid foods. Meals can be blended, strained, or have liquids added to meet the right consistency.
Overall Tips
Even with a balanced diet, it’s important to keep a few things in mind when meal planning to boost health benefits:
- Limit foods with high saturated fat and cholesterol: Although some fat is crucial for our diet, not all fats are good for you. Cut down on fats that affect heart health, like butter, fatty meats, and lard.
- Limit refined sugars: Refined sugars are often found in processed foods and lack vitamins, minerals, and fiber. If a sweet tooth arises, you can opt for healthier options such as fruit or juice-sweetened baked goods.
- Cut high-sodium foods: Consuming too much sodium impacts blood pressure. Instead of putting salt on food, try using spices or herbs to season.
How Northland Heights Can Accommodate
Meeting nutritional needs is a vital part of a person with dementia’s overall health. Whether you’re a caregiver planning meals or exploring additional care options, understanding how to craft a balanced, dementia-friendly diet can make a real difference.
At our assisted living community that specializes in memory care, we know that mealtime is super important. We are able to accommodate almost any diet or food preferences for your loved one. We’re happy to create delicious and balanced meals tailored to diabetic, mechanical soft, pureed, or no added salt diets.
All menus are approved by a certified dietitian to ensure your loved one is getting a balanced meal every day. Additionally, our community offers breakfast made to order, a private dining room for residents and families, an ice cream and coffee bar, and outdoor dining on the patio during the warmer months.
Our dedicated team at Northland Heights is here to support your loved one’s unique dietary needs and preferences with compassion and expertise. A well-balanced, dementia-friendly diet can pave the way to a healthier, more vibrant life. For more information, contact us today!
