As Mr. Jones’s level of understanding and his attention span decreased, it was important to assess self-care abilities. Was Mr. Jones able to bathe himself, properly clean himself after a bowel movement, brush his teeth, or dress himself? Since Mr. Jones’s mental status was altered, Ms. C. needed to offer simple, direct, and concise instructions […]

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It is well known that the population of the United States is rapidly aging. As greater numbers get older, there is an increase in the number of people who develop dementia. By far the most common dementia is Alzheimer’s disease and there are also the less frequently occurring dementias, such as those associated with small […]

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If taste sensation has diminished, try using foods that vary in texture and temperature.
Enhancing the flavors of foods with spices can increase the acceptance of foods by those patients whose taste acuity has decreased.
The sense of different tastes (sweet, salt, bitter) are best perceived at body temperature. Patients will be more aware of different flavors […]

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Though proper nutrition will not cure Alzheimer’s disease, it is neverthe-less vital to the patient’s well-being and may help to prevent the onset of other complications including malnutrition and pneumonia. Caregivers should be aware that medications may interfere with the absorption or utilization of nutrients and, over prolonged periods of time, could lead to some […]

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Aspects of Memory
Before we can attempt to “improve” memory functioning, we must first understand the different processes involved in forming memories. The ability to retain information from previous experience is one of our most important abilities on which our capacity to adapt and function effectively in different situations depends. Most people tend to think of […]

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Disorientation, impaired neurological functioning, and inability to locate the bathroom may create elimination problems for the Alzheimer patient. It is important to note changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea, dribbling, or incontinence. It is also advisable to monitor fluid intake very carefully because of its effect on elimination.
Methods used to facilitate Mr. […]

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Fiber
The many different types of fiber are divided into soluble and insoluble fibers. Both types of fiber are necessary for good health. Dietary fiber has been related to many health conditions. Fiber may be beneficial in cases of constipation, diarrhea, diverticulitis, cardiovascular disease, colon cancer, and diabetes. However, one should be cautious in assuming that […]

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The nutritional needs of older adults are not much different from those of younger adults. However, the aging process gives each age group special characteristics. This is true for the older adult as well as for the teenager or the expectant mother. Some of the changes that occur with aging affect food intake and the […]

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