Using food to connect with an Alzheimer’s patient
In most homes, the kitchen is the hub of the house. We spend so much of our days cooking, cleaning, and sitting around the table. If you care for a person with Alzheimer’s disease, food preparation is more than merely cooking and cleaning; it can be a meaningful experience for everyone with just a pinch of patience and a dash of organization .The most important ingredient: do not become frustrated during the process or if the end result is not perfect. The point is to enjoy your time together in the kitchen!
Keep it simple. Give step by step instructions, one at a time. For example, “Pour the milk in the bowl” is more helpful than saying , “Add the milk.”
- Set realistic expectations. Ask your loved one to assist with chores you know he or she can accomplish. Making an activity fail-proof prevents frustration and boosts self-esteem.
- Suggest familiar tasks. For example, invite your loved one to help wash fruits or vegetables, measure ingredients, stir batter, or set the table.
- Keep safety in mind. Someone with dementia should not be using a knife or working near a hot stove. If a person can not see well or is unsteady, limit tasks to those that can be accomplished sitting down.
- Enjoy your meal together. Talk about how your loved one helped prepare the foods you are eating. Use this time to nourish your body and your spirit.
- Try involving your loved one in the cleanup. Someone with dementia can help clear the table or help wash or dry the dishes. Even is every dish doesn’t come out spotless, it is the experience that counts. The dishwater can be soothing, and the person can feel a sense of accomplishment. For safety’s sake, use nonbreakable plates and glasses; make sure the water is not too hot or too cold; and remove any sharp objects from the sink.
- Involve your loved one in the kitchen even if he or she can not or does not want to help cook – or at other times. Some suggestions include arranging canned goods in the cupboard, folding dishcloths, clipping coupons, making a grocery list, or sweeping the floor. Break the responsibilities down into smaller steps and do not rush the activity.
- Use all of these tasks to engage in conversation about the family, holidays, or how things were done in the old days. Reminiscing can spark memories that can be fun for both of you.
From careADvantage, Summer, 2006
