When you’re living with dementia, eating can be a challenge. You may need to remember if you’ve already eaten or what’s on your plate. It can be challenging to remember the names of food and beverages, too. And that’s why the dining programs offered in memory care in Salisbury, MD are so important: they help residents enjoy good food while living with dementia. Here are some key features of these programs and menus so you’ll know what to expect when looking for a home for yourself or your loved one—and how to ensure your loved one gets the best care possible at mealtime.
Specialized Training
A number of dining services are specifically trained to handle the needs of residents with dementia. These programs can vary widely, but they all have one thing in common: they’re staffed with people who have been taught how to interact with those living with memory loss. For example, if someone forgets their name or needs help remembering what they ordered last time they ate at a restaurant, the care team will know how to respond appropriately so as to avoid upset or confusing the resident further.
Nutrition Expertise
A nutritionist is on staff at most memory care communities. This expert will work with you to create a customized meal plan for your loved one, who may have specific dietary needs due to age or illness. For example, if your family member has diabetes or heart disease, the dietician can help them make healthy food choices that meet their medical needs.
If you have questions about what types of foods might be best for your loved one’s condition, ask the caregivers in their community about their expertise with dementia care-especially if it’s an issue for someone in your family. Many communities offer specialized training in dementia care and can provide advice based on years of experience working with patients with this condition. If there are particular food allergies or intolerances in play (elevated cholesterol levels from overeating fat; lactose intolerance), this information should also be taken into account when planning meals!
Serving Healthy Meals
Healthy meals are served at the right time. Memory care residents often need help with their sense of time and may forget to eat when hungry. If you serve your loved one a meal when they aren’t hungry, it can be frustrating for both of you and won’t stick in their stomachs!
Healthy meals are served in a comfortable setting with plenty of room for movement and conversation. It’s important for memory care residents to feel safe when eating; if there isn’t enough space around the table or the chairs aren’t comfortable enough, it will be difficult for them to relax during meals (which makes digestion difficult).
These meals will be served in a relaxed atmosphere with no rush so that they can enjoy their food without feeling rushed or pressured. The care team will also try to make sure that the person with dementia has enough time to eat their meal before being moved on to the next activity.
Conclusion
The dining program and menus offered in memory care communities are designed to help residents enjoy good food while living with dementia. Remember, it can be hard for the person with Alzheimer’s and caregivers alike, so don’t be afraid to ask questions and voice concerns. By doing so, we can help ensure that everyone gets the best care possible!
