Dementia may affect a person’s co-ordination or swallowing and, as a result, their ability to eat and drink. The person may benefit from equipment such as:
- cutlery with cushioned handles that are easier to grip
- non-spill cups with large handles
- one-way straws which do not let liquid travel back down
Some people with dementia may have difficulties eating and drinking due to visual problems, such as not ‘seeing’ items on the table because they are a similar colour to the tablecloth.
Use cutlery, crockery and other tableware items in colours that contrast with each other. The colour of the food can also have an effect – for instance light-coloured foods (such as mashed potatoes) on a light-coloured plate may not be very visible. A dark red plate could help in this situation.
