Feeding and hydration issues for older adults with dementia

Alzheimer's disease and other dementias influence an individual's ability to eat, be assisted with eating, and consume adequate fluids. With a growing number of older persons requiring assistance with mealtimes as the incidence of dementia rises, an interdisciplinary team perspective is required to achieve adequate nutrition and hydration. People with dementia require individualized care at meals that supports independence for as long as possible and gradually adapts both interaction style of the caregiver and the environment to promote the dignity and comfort of the affected individual and to preserve the essential social nature of eating. Examination of the etiology of problematic feeding issues, review of proper assessment techniques, consideration of end-of-life issues, and dissemination of evidence-based protocols are all part of promoting best practices in this critical area of health.