Dementia: Weight Loss and Mealtime Challenges

Weight loss and problems with mealtime are challenges for people with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. These challenges are also difficult for caregivers who struggle to ensure that their family members have adequate nutritional intake. Although feeding tubes were once considered an effective solution, there is no evidence that they are effective, they may cause harm, and many authorities suggest that they not be used in people with advanced dementia. This article presents evidence-based recommendations for the assessment and management of weight loss in those with dementia and suggests supportive strategies for families striving to create meaningful mealtimes. •Weight loss and mealtimes challenge people with Alzheimer’s disease.•Identifying weight loss and nutritional risk is critically important.•Management of weight loss requires addressing reversible conditions.•Caregivers require education and support to aid feeding and mealtime.•Intensive individual comfort care may provide an alternative to aggressive care.