EP: 207 - What to do when a person with Alzheimer’s Disease stops eating

This Is Getting Old Podcast with Melissa B PhD

When Dementia Patients Stop Eating: A Caregiver’s Guide to Support and Comfort

Caring for a loved one with dementia is an emotional journey, and one of the most difficult challenges is when they stop eating or drinking. This heartbreaking transition often signals the later stages of the disease, leaving caregivers feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do.

In this blog post, we’ll explore:

• Why people with dementia stop eating and drinking: From loss of appetite to difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), there are several physical and neurological reasons behind this change.
• How to provide comfort and care: Practical tips like offering liquids with straws to trigger reflexes, using calorie-dense drinks, and maintaining oral hygiene to prevent discomfort.
• Ways to maintain connection: Mealtimes can still be meaningful moments to share love and presence, even when food is no longer a focus.
• Grief, loss, and bereavement: The emotional toll of caregiving, especially during end-stage dementia, can be overwhelming. Recognizing anticipatory grief and seeking support can make a difference.

This journey isn’t one you have to face alone. Hospice care, palliative specialists, and local dementia organizations are invaluable resources that can guide and support you every step of the way.

For more personalized help, explore my new ebook and online course, Managing Meals and Eating Challenges. Designed for family and professional caregivers, these resources include expert strategies, video demonstrations, and skills checklists to help you navigate eating challenges with confidence and compassion.

Visit MelissaBPhD.com to learn more and take the first step toward making mealtimes less stressful and more meaningful.