Recent figures estimate that 70% of people living in care homes have dementia, or severe memory problems , and this stark figure is only on the rise.

Living with dementia directly impacts an individual’s physical health, cognitive function and overall well-being, and therefore ensuring proper nutrition is vital to help manage symptoms and reduce risk of further complications.

In apetito’s latest instalment of its “Lunch With…” series, host and in-house Dietitian, Sophia Cornelius sits down with Professor Jane Murphy, Professor of Nutrition at Bournemouth University and experienced Speech and Language Therapist, Tracy Broadley Jackson to delve into the importance of proper nutrition for those living with dementia and how care homes can support through early intervention.

During the episode, Jane explained the severe consequences that can arise from residents with dementia not getting the nutrition they need:

“If people aren’t eating enough to support their needs, they are at risk of malnutrition, and around 50% of those living with dementia are malnourished.

“The impacts of this can be massive, particularly on quality of life. Malnutrition causes people to lose muscle mass and strength, reducing their ability to move around their environment and putting them at risk of frailty and increased falls.

“It also heightens the risk of infection and pressure sores, which can result in increased GP and hospital visits.

“Therefore, not only do we see big impacts for the individual, but also the increased care needs can create further impact on the care home and wider health and social care sector as they support the individual.

“Early intervention to mitigate the risks of poor nutrition is key, and there are lots of elements that care home staff, and the environment can do to support this.”

For caregivers, it’s essential to notice warning signs as early as possible so that timely action can be taken, explains Jane:

“Look out for if people aren’t eating well during mealtimes, refusing to eat altogether or have changing appetites. There are also some clear physical signs to keep an eye out for, such as clothes and rings becoming looser fitting.

“All care homes need to be using a validated screening tool on a regular basis to ensure consistent monitoring, particularly if you notice any of the above signs. The Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST) is a common one, but there are other tools available.”

Tracy highlighted additional cues during mealtimes that may indicate a resident isn’t receiving proper nutrition:

“Pay attention to how long it takes someone to eat their food. If it’s taking up to an hour then that should raise concern – there is no enjoyment, and they won’t be getting the nutrition needed.

“Frequent coughing is something else to keep a close eye on, as it could be a sign they’re unable to swallow safely and food or drink could be going down towards the airway rather than the food pipe.

“Taking bits of food out of their mouth during a meal is a sign that they cannot manage the lumps. Recognising these altered behaviours is important in catching the signs early that someone may be eating less.”

To understand how to ensure residents living with dementia can enjoy mealtimes safely and get the nutrition required, particularly through specialised solutions such as texture modified meals and finger foods, watch the full episode for FREE at https://apetito.link/lunch-with-apetito