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"Lunch lady, can we have some sloppy joes?"
I hope this title brings back memories of one of the best Saturday Night Live skits ever -- Adam Sandler singing and Chris Farley as the Lunch Lady. Please take a few minutes to Google this. I promise, you won't regret it.
Having a loved one who can't remember eating can be difficult.
Do you provide a second lunch? Ask, "You just ate, don't you remember?"
Or actively ignore.
All three choices are not the best go to. I would recommend a few different options.
First, if your loved one is frail and can use more food, serve away.
If weight is an issue, try the following to create a distraction from food.
Fix a cup of coffee (or make their favorite drink) and sit down with a drink of your own, and have a conversation about something else.
If you are in the kitchen, move the conversation to the living room. You can talk about their parents, siblings, or children.
Depending on where your loved one is in the disease, it is usually best to talk about their parents or siblings. Those memories stand out more than memories of their own children and grandchildren.
Talk about their careers, where they lived, and special memories from the past. This can be a great distraction, and the thought of food should disappear.
Along with the coffee, you could also serve cottage cheese, a Danish, cheese and crackers, or something small they can snack on while you talk about the past.
A lot of times boredom causes hunger. Have something set out that will keep your loved one occupied, that requires them to use their hands. Cards, board games, solitaire on the computer, cutting out coupons, making a list for errands. Anything that can take their attention off of food.
Going for a walk or getting out of the house is also important. These February days lately feel like spring. Enjoy a short drive or walk.
Keeping your loved one engaged in an activity can help with several issues. The activity needs to be enjoyable and something they can accomplish.
Taking five to 10 minutes out of your day to be present and active in their day, goes a long way!
For questions, please feel free to please write in to The Inter Mountain at 520 Railroad Ave., Elkins, WV 26241, or send email to bjohnson@theintermountain.com.