Like many Alzheimer patients, as Mr. Jones’s disease progressed, alter ations in nutrition were noticed, there was a significant weight loss. It became important to assess food likes and dislikes, to determine if he was able to feed himself, and to ascertain the nutritional value of the food he was eating. It was also important to determine if loose or missing teeth affected his nutrition. Ms. C. was advised to limit the number of choices that he could make, since his ability to decide was impaired. She was encouraged to give assistance with food selections as appropriate. To further encourage adequate intake of calories, Mr. Jones was allowed sufficient time for meals, and privacy was provided so that he was not embarrassed by unacceptable eating habits. Finger food or foods that could be eaten with a spoon were provided because they were man age able and allowed him to be autonomous in his feeding. When Mr . Jones refused to eat adequately at mealtimes, small, frequent feedings were offered. Food supplements (such as Ensure) were used alternatively to assure proper nutrition for Alzheimer treatment.

Methods Of Improving Nutrition

• Provide assistance with food selection as appropriate.
• Ensure privacy so the person is not embarrassed by unacceptable eating habits that may develop.
• When the patient refuses to eat regular food, consider using food supplements.
• Monitor the amount of fluids consumed.
• Offer frequent, small feedings.
• Limit the number of food choices, since decision-making is impaired.
• Since the patient’s motor functioning has decreased, allow sufficient time for meals.
• Provide finger foods or foods that can be easily managed with a spoon.
• Allow the patient to be as autonomous as possible in feeding.
• Avoid extremely hot foods guard against burns.
• Monitor weight at least once per week at the same time, preferably in the morning.

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