Eating and Drinking Well with Dementia: A Practical Guide Every Family Should Know About
- May 31
- 3 min read
One of the most common concerns we hear from families is:
"Mum doesn't seem interested in food anymore." or "My husband says he's not thirsty, but I'm worried he's not drinking enough."
Changes in eating and drinking are incredibly common when someone is living with a dementia. Yet many families are never told what to expect, what is normal, or what practical things they can do to help.
That's why we're sharing this excellent guide: Eating and Drinking Well with Dementia, developed by Bournemouth University's Ageing and Dementia Research Centre.
Why Eating and Drinking Matter So Much
Good nutrition and hydration do far more than simply prevent hunger and thirst.
When someone is not eating or drinking enough, it can increase the risk of weight loss, falls, constipation, fatigue, infections, poor wound healing, increased confusion and a faster decline in overall health and wellbeing.
Dehydration can be particularly difficult to spot because the signs are often mistaken for dementia symptoms themselves. Tiredness, dizziness, confusion and increased falls can all be linked to not drinking enough.
Dementia Changes More Than Memory
Many people assume that eating difficulties happen because someone forgets to eat.
In reality, the changes can be far more complex.
As dementia progresses, people may lose interest in food, struggle to recognise meals, forget how to use cutlery, or find busy mealtime environments overwhelming. Some people develop a stronger preference for sweet foods, while others may have difficulty chewing or swallowing.
Understanding that these changes are part of the condition can help families respond with patience, reassurance and practical support rather than frustration.
Helpful Tips from the Guide
Little and often
Large meals can feel overwhelming. Smaller meals, snacks and drinks offered regularly throughout the day are often more manageable and less stressful.
Make food easier to eat
Finger foods can be particularly helpful for people who struggle with cutlery, prefer to walk around, or find it difficult to sit still during meals.
Simple foods such as sandwiches, mini quiches, fish cakes, fruit, cheese and crackers can all work well.
Focus on enjoyment, not just nutrition
Food is about much more than calories.
Sharing meals together, talking about favourite foods from the past, cooking together or creating a calm and relaxed environment can all help make eating feel more enjoyable.
Support independence where possible
Small changes can make a big difference. The guide suggests:
Using brightly coloured plates
Providing good lighting
Reducing background noise
Allowing plenty of time
Using adapted cutlery or crockery where needed
The guide also reminds us that eating is often one of the activities people living with dementia can continue to enjoy for a long time.
Do not ignore swallowing difficulties
The guide explains how to spot signs that someone may be having difficulty swallowing, including:
Coughing during meals
Food sticking in the throat
Frequent chest infections
Weight loss
A wet or gurgly sounding voice
These symptoms should always be discussed with a GP, as support from a Speech and Language Therapist may be needed.
Looking After Yourself Matters Too
One part of the guide we particularly value is the reminder that carers need support as well.
When someone is struggling with eating and drinking, mealtimes can become stressful and emotionally exhausting. The guide encourages carers to ask for help, take breaks where possible, and remember that their own wellbeing matters too.
At The Good Company People, we know that caring often means carrying worries that nobody else sees. Sometimes simply knowing that other people are facing similar challenges can be a huge relief.
Download the Guide 👇
If you are supporting someone living with dementia, we would strongly recommend keeping a copy of this guide to hand. It is full of practical, evidence based advice and realistic suggestions that families can start using straight away.
Whether you are waiting for a memory assessment, supporting someone newly diagnosed, or caring for a partner whose dementia is progressing, there is something useful here for everyone.
Because food is never just about food.
It is about comfort, routine, connection, independence and quality of life.
