In the early stages of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD), eating habits often stay the same. Most people can still shop, cook and eat on their own. Some people may begin to eat less because of changes in memory, taste and smell. Weight loss can be an early sign of ADRD, even before a diagnosis. Small changes may also happen. This includes forgetting to eat, having trouble following recipes or losing interest in cooking.
It’s important to talk with a health care team about personal dietary needs, but some research shows that healthy diets, like the MIND diet, may help protect memory and thinking in those with early memory loss. Starting healthy habits and simple meal routines now can support independence and nutrition in the future.
What to Expect for Nutrition, Mealtimes and Shopping
- Not remembering meals, skipping meals or eating twice at mealtimes
- Loss of smell, taste and/or appetite
- Weight loss
- Feeling confused or overwhelmed when shopping, planning meals or cooking
- Decline in food shopping frequency
What to Try
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Take part in regular screenings
Early Stage Take Part
- Go to regular visits to check for things like poor nutrition, dehydration, trouble swallowing (also known as dysphagia) and weight loss.
- Check-ups and support may be available from doctors, allied health care providers (like registered dietitians or speech-language pathologists), local Area Agencies on Aging or dementia navigators.
- – Always ask a doctor or other allied health care provider questions about your health or treatment.
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Use simple tools and reminders
Use simple tools
- Use written meal plans, reminders, sticky notes and grocery lists.
- Use phone alarms and timers as helpful tools.
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Keep cooking and meals easy
Keep cooking
- Focus on one-pan recipes and batch cooking.
- Try meal kits or prepared meals.
- Have simple mealtime routines.
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Cook and eat together
Cook and eat together
- Make cooking a shared activity by planning and cooking together.
- Eat together when possible, as shared mealtimes can improve mood, reduce stress and increase appetite.
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Stay independent
Stay independent
- Continue shopping or meal preparation, as long as it is safe.
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Support hydration and appetite
Support hydration
- Make time for fluid breaks or pair sips with meals.
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Plan when dining out
Plan when dining out
- Make reservations to lower wait times.
- Ask to sit in a quiet area to reduce noise and stress.
- Go to restaurants with small menus.
Visit these resources for more helpful information
Caring for the Care Partner
Caring for someone in the early stages of ADRD can mean taking on new tasks. This is an important time to care for your own physical and mental health, too. Try to:
Make balanced meals for yourself, too
- Eating regular, healthy meals offers energy and focus. It can also help your mood.
Keep sharing meals together
- Shared mealtimes can support connection, enjoyment and routine for both you and your loved one.
Start simple routines you can stick with
- Regular times for shopping, meal prep and eating can help lower stress as care needs grow.
Talk with your own doctor
- Ask about nutrition and stress levels, especially if your caregiving role is changing.
Why this matters
Healthy food and steady routines can help support brain health. Planning ahead may help your loved one keep doing things on their own. It can also help both of you feel better day to day.
Brought to you by Magnolia - Partners Along The Patient Journey, in collaboration with:
