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 Our bodily function changes as we age. Eating problems caused by the decline of physiological functions are common among the elderly. This can result in an imbalanced diet that may subsequently affect nutritional status. With proper dietary modifications, these eating problems can be resolved.

1. Chewing difficulties

·         Cut food into smaller pieces by chopping or grinding, modify food texture by pureeing with blenders before eating, cook food thoroughly until tender, or add sauces.

·         Visit dentists regularly and wear well-fitted dentures.

2. Reduced taste

·         Encourage chewing and ensure proper dental hygiene.

·         Avoid cigarette smoking.

3. Dry mouth

·         Ensure adequate fluid intake.

·         Provide food with sauces, gravies or clear soup, or soften bread or crackers with milk or soup.

·         Drink some water to moisten the mouth before meals or chew on some pickles or fresh lemon slices to stimulate saliva secretion.

4. Poor appetite

·         Have small, frequent meals supplemented with nutrient dense snacks

·         Eating utensils, that are lightweight that will aide in the ability to eat

·         Food bumpers can be used to prevent spills

Persons enrolled in the Ohio Home Care Waiver Program are now allowed to choose their caregivers from various sources. Independent Provider Nurses are among the list of approved caregivers. If you are aware of a child or adult consumer who is in need of a home care nurse, and is currently enrolled in the Ohio Home Care Waiver Program, there is a list of available nurses at the Ohio Independent Provider Network. The Ohio Independent Provider Network is not a home care agency. However, they are a network of Ohio nurses who have been approved by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services to provide skilled nursing services to disabled individuals. There are RNs and LPNs available throughout Ohio to help families restore balance to their lives, and help their loved ones remain at home.

Studies have shown that almost 40% of Alzheimer’s patients experience significant weight loss. A study out of Boston University suggests that the weight loss is due in part to the loss of the ability to distinguish contrast between colors.

It is a known fact, people with Alzheimer’s are not able to distinguish light colored food and drink on or in typically light colored tableware. When using tableware that offered a high contrast to the food and drink (i.e.: bright red and bright blue), researchers noticed that the participants in the study increased their food intake by 24% and liquid intake by 84% (1). 40% of Alzheimer’s patients experience significant weight loss. More than 60% of people with Alzheimer’s Disease have a decrease in visual capacity(2). Up to 50% of the fluctuations in the ability of someone with Alzheimer’s Disease to perform activities of daily living can be attributed to deficits in visual capacity (2) Research indicates that people with Alzheimer’s Disease experienced a 24% increase in food intake and 84% increase in liquid intake when eating and drinking with tableware that offers a high contrast color (1) The human eye has more receptors in the retina to see red than to see any other color. Alzheimer’s patients show greater deficits in their ability to see colors in the blue-violet range.

Sources: 1 Dunne TE, Neargardener SA, Cipollini, PB, Cronin-Golomb A. Visual contrast enhances food and liquid intake in advanced Alzheimer’s disease. Clinical Nutrition 2004; 23:533-538. 2 Rosa-Brady J, Dunne, T. Alzheimer’s Association, Massachusetts Chapter Newsletter 1999; 17:3.

With the advancement of price comparison tools found on the internet, we tend to “shop around” for the lowest prices for practically every item we purchase. We sometimes spend hours, looking for the best price for a single item before finally making a purchase.
 
Depending on the category of the item, this could prove beneficial. But, it is important to remember: Cheaper is not always better, particularly as it relates to products concerning our healthcare and mobility. We’ve all heard the saying, ” You get what you pay for.” Don’t fall victim to companies selling, used, inexpensive and unsafe medical and mobility products. If you are of a hefty stature (200 lbs. or more) you’ll be better off spending a few extra dollars to have the most reliable sturdy equipment; which is likely to be safer and withstand continued use over a longer period of time. In the long run you actually save money. Chances are, the cheaper items will require replacement sooner. Take advantage of the many payment options offered by companies such as Wheelchairs Abound. Invest in brands that have withstood the test of time, such as Amigo and Invacare ……..Why?      Because, you are worth it!