Eating well becomes increasingly difficult for many people living with dementia. Families in Christchurch and Tauranga often notice skipped meals, loss of appetite, or confusion around food. Dehydration is also common, especially when a loved one forgets to drink regularly.
Good nutrition and hydration do more than prevent weight loss — they support mood, cognition, sleep, and energy. Understanding the challenges and making small, thoughtful changes can dramatically improve quality of life.
Common Eating and Drinking Challenges in Dementia
Recognising these barriers helps families take proactive, gentle steps toward better mealtimes.
Practical Nutrition Strategies for Families
1. Create routine and familiarity
Serve meals at consistent times and in familiar places. Use the same crockery and cutlery to reduce confusion.
2. Make food colourful and appealing
Bright, natural colours stimulate appetite — think pumpkin soup, steamed greens, or berries with yoghurt.
3. Offer smaller, more frequent meals
Three large meals can feel overwhelming. Instead, provide five or six light options throughout the day.
4. Include easy-to-eat textures
Soft, bite-sized foods like mashed kumara, fish, and scrambled eggs are safe and satisfying.
5. Adapt for independence
Finger foods allow people who struggle with utensils to feed themselves with dignity.
6. Involve your loved one
Simple actions like stirring, setting the table, or choosing between two dishes can restore a sense of control.
Hydration: The Often-Overlooked Essential
Dehydration can quickly worsen confusion, headaches, and urinary infections.
Tips to encourage drinking:
- Keep a drink within arm’s reach at all times.
- Offer water, herbal tea, or juice every one to two hours.
- Use coloured cups (often blue works best for visibility).
- Add fruit slices or mint to make water more appealing.
- Soups, custards, and jelly all count toward fluid intake.
When Eating Becomes Difficult
If swallowing problems, rapid weight loss, or choking occur, it’s important to seek professional advice. A GP or dietitian can recommend food texture modifications or supplements.
Home Carers can also help by preparing soft, nutritious meals and monitoring intake throughout the day. Our Meal Preparation Service and Wellness Checks ensure older adults stay nourished and hydrated safely.
For advanced guidance, the Ministry of Health NZ Healthy Eating Guidelines offer evidence-based recommendations for older adults.
Nourishment Brings Connection
Mealtimes can be moments of comfort, conversation, and care — not just nutrition. With the right support, families in Christchurch and Tauranga can turn eating and drinking back into something their loved one enjoys.
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