Several considerations need to be made when preparing meals for a parent with Alzheimer’s. First, tastes change and sweeter items often become more appealing. Second, chewing and swallowing become more challenging as the disease progresses.
Meals need to be designed around these factors. Here are some of the easier meals to make that will appeal to adults with Alzheimer’s disease.
Aim for Color
Colorful foods appeal to people with Alzheimer’s. Broil a cod filet and top it with a colorful salsa made from mango, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. It adds a touch of sweetness, too.
When you’re choosing colorful foods, try to touch upon all of the essential nutrients. Antioxidants, B vitamins, fiber, calcium/vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids are important.
Finger Foods Help
As it can become challenging to hold a fork, spoon, or knife, serve finger foods. Coat chicken tenders in crushed walnuts and herbs and bake them. Asparagus spears, roasted zucchini sticks, and oven-baked fries are other foods that your mom or dad will be able to manage.
Soft foods may be easier to chew. Fish sticks, fruit salad, and grains turned into pan-fried cakes can be better choices. Fruit platters with sliced bananas, strawberries, kiwi, melon, and mango are easily eaten with fingers and are soft enough to chew with ease.
Smoothies Are Ideal When Chewing is Harder
As it becomes harder to chew items, smoothies may be a better option. Create a smoothie with frozen berries, leafy green vegetables, yogurt, and honey for sweetness. Try to come up with combinations that include protein, fiber, dairy, vegetables, and fruit.
You might have a lot of luck with ice cream. Make ice cream with kefir or drinkable yogurt, frozen banana, applesauce, and favorite fruits. Using a blender, cold liquids and frozen fruit will turn into a soft ice cream that’s easy to swallow.
When Did You Last Take a Break?
Caring for a parent with Alzheimer’s is hard work. Mood swings are common and frustration appears out of nowhere. Before you become overly frustrated, make sure you’re taking breaks where you can recharge and clear your head.
Elderly care is a great way to take regular breaks. Let elderly care providers take over for a few hours each day or week and use that time to go for a walk or drive, run errands, or spend time alone. It will help you avoid added stress and allow you to socialize. For your health, call our elderly care agency and arrange part-time caregiver services.