The Role of Nutrition in Managing Dementia
It is estimated that between 944,000 and 982,000 people are living with dementia in the UK currently. And despite continuous research, a cure is yet to be found. However, evidence emerging does suggest that nutrition and diets play a crucial role in managing the deterioration of the disease.
At Primrose Lodge Weymouth, we are proud to serve home-cooked meals to all of our residents to ensure their nutrition supports their care. Our expert kitchen staff and chefs are knowledgeable on how different foods can impact various health conditions, so plan accordingly. In this blog, we share how you can use nutrition to help manage dementia symptoms and deterioration.
Understanding Dementia and Nutrition
The link between nutrition and dementia has been heavily researched in the medical community.
The research develops an understanding of how nutrition impacts brain function, particularly how a lack of minerals and vitamins can exacerbate cognitive decline. On the flip side, the research shows how a nutrient-rich diet can support brain health, potentially slowing down the progression of dementia.
Nutritional Needs of Dementia Patients
As dementia affects cognitive functions, those living with the disease face unique challenges when it comes to their diet and nutrition, mainly because they often forget to eat, and physical impacts can make it difficult to swallow or eat.
However, as mentioned above, ensuring they get the right amount of nutrition and hydration can help reduce the progression of the disease. This includes making sure they get a variety of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats.
Brain-Healthy Foods and Supplements
There are a certain set of nutrients that are particularly helpful for brain health, and these become even more important for those with dementia.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These, often found in fatty fish like salmon, are essential for brain function and may help reduce brain inflammation.
- Antioxidants: Foods rich in antioxidants, such as berries and leafy greens, can combat oxidative stress associated with brain ageing.
- Vitamin E: Foods high in Vitamin E, such as nuts and seeds, can support cognitive health.
These nutrients can be found in supplements and vitamin tablets, but where possible, they should be received through a balanced diet.
Dietary Strategies for Managing Dementia
As a caregiver, there are several ways that you can ensure your loved one is getting all the nutrients they need and combat the challenges those living with dementia face.
- Regular, Balanced Meals: Set a routine for meals to ensure regular food intake.
- Adaptive Eating Utensils: Use utensils designed for individuals with motor difficulties to aid in self-feeding.
- Creating a Calm Eating Environment: Reduce distractions to help focus attention on eating.
Research and Studies on Diet and Dementia
Within the research investigating how nutrients can help slow the progression of dementia, it has emerged that a Mediterranean diet is one of the most beneficial diets for those with dementia as it is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats.
Additionally, it has been suggested that the MIND diet, a combination of a Mediterranean and DASH diet, can also help slow cognitive decline.
Challenges in Nutritional Care for Dementia
However, simply preparing the right food can sometimes be half the battle, as those with dementia might not always cooperate when it comes to eating the dish.
Hopefully, the above strategies will reduce the chances of this, but it isn't always guaranteed, so seeking additional advice from dietitians or GPs might be helpful.
Nutrition and Dementia
Nutrition is a pivotal part of dementia care and the management of the disease. A thoughtfully designed diet full of nutrients that support the brain in conjunction with a kind approach to mealtime difficulties can have a big impact on the dementia care process.
At Primrose Lodge Weymouth, our chefs work with our residents to create weekly menus full of their favourite meals, ensuring they are excited about mealtimes. Alongside this, behind the scenes in the kitchen, they use creative recipes to make sure nutrient-rich ingredients are used.
Additionally, our staff make sure each resident is comfortable when eating. This might mean dining in their room or joining other residents in our dining room facilities.
Learn more about how we provide the right nutrition to our residents with dementia by visiting our home. When doing this, you can speak to our care staff and kitchen staff, as well as residents. Book a visit by calling us on 01305 786568 or completing our online contact form.