Tastes can quickly change when dementia is present. You may find your mom suddenly hating foods she loved. Many family caregivers find people with Alzheimer’s develop a wicked sweet tooth and lean towards foods like bananas, ice cream, sorbets, and fruit juices.
You want your mom to eat a balanced diet, but she’s not making it easy. All she wants are sweet foods. What can you do?
Sneak in Vegetables and Protein
You may need to be sneaky. If your mom loves chocolate pudding and craves it regularly, get some protein into her by mixing melted chocolate, honey, and silken tofu. Blend that till smooth and place it in the refrigerator. It’s not the healthiest option, but the tofu is a good form of protein.
If your mom loves fruit smoothies, add spinach, kale, cooked squash or pumpkin, and cooked carrots to the mix. You’ll sneak some vegetables by her, but she’s still getting the sweet treat that she’s craving.
Balance Meals With Something Sweet
Try to create meals that pair the healthier meal options with things your mom will like in between. For example, put her meal on a plate but add a fruit salad as a side. Start with a soup, add a sandwich or salad, and serve it with a puree of frozen banana and strawberries.
Look for pairings that blend sweet and savory. A grilled pork chop that’s covered in a blueberry chutney ensures she gets protein while also enjoying something for her sweet tooth. You could serve chicken tacos with a mango salsa.
Talk to a Doctor
Sometimes, it’s more important that your mom is eating. If all you can get her to eat is yogurt and bananas, it’s better than refusing to eat. Don’t let the lack of variety get to you unless her doctor says she is malnourished.
If the doctor is concerned, see what the doctor things about protein shakes like Boost. They’re filled with nutrients that may balance out the foods your mom eats the rest of the time.
Hire a Caregiver to Cook Meals
It may be harder for your mom to tell a caregiver no. If you hire home care services, a caregiver can prepare meals for your mom. Caregivers also are happy to join your mom for a meal, which is a good way to get your mom to eat more.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering Elderly Care in San Francisco, CA, call the caring staff at Aviva In-Home Care. Call today: (415) 795-2203
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