Dementia Emotional Changes

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UNDERSTAND AND MEET THE NUTRITIONAL REQUIREMENTS OF INDIVIDUALS WITH DEMENTIA DESCRIBE HOW THE ABOVE CHANGES ASSOCIATED WITH DEMENTIA CAN AFFECT EATING, DRINKING AND NUTRITION Dementia can greatly affect a person's relationship to food and eating. The behavioural, emotional and physical changes that take place as dementia progresses can all have an impact upon a person's eating habits and on their intake of food and drink. It is important to do what you can to make sure that the person you are caring for enjoys their food and eats a healthy, balanced diet. As dementia progresses eating can become difficult for some people. Eating and drinking well is important to stay healthy. A healthy and varied diet is likely to improve a person’s…show more content…
As dementia progresses, the person is likely to need more support to meet their needs. 1.3 OUTLINE HOW OTHER HEALTH AND EMOTIONAL CONDITION MAY AFFECT THE NUTRITIONAL NEEDS… There are many reasons why a person may turn down food and drink. Loss of appetite can be a sign of depression. Depression is common in people with dementia. Social isolation can also be a big factor for loss of appetite Forgetfulness Illness and medications can result in reduced appetite and difficulties with shopping, preparing and eating food. The person with dementia may have problems communicating that they are hungry or that they dislike the food they have been given. They may communicate their needs through their behaviour. For example, they may refuse to eat or hold food in their mouth. Giving people a choice of food, using prompts and pictures, may help. Tiredness – This can also be a cause of people with dementia not eating or giving up part way through a meal. It can also lead to other difficulties such as problems with concentration or difficulties with coordination.…show more content…
An individuals diet will be influenced by their culture - their beliefs and values. these may in turn be influenced by their religion or ethnic background. Individual preferences, such as always eating the main meal in the evening or having Sunday roast beef with potatos , are part of people's individual cultures and are equally important. When a person moves into the care setting, it is important to find out their likes and dislikes, their normal pattern of eating and any specific needs they may have. This will help to achieve an environment that promotes choice and demonstrates respect for an individuals personal beliefs and
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