When a dementia patient stops eating, it can be stressful and confusing. It’s not just about skipping meals—loss of appetite in dementia is often a sign that something bigger is happening. Eating problems are common in dementia, especially in the later stages.
Research shows that nearly half of dementia patients struggle with eating and swallowing at some point, which can lead to serious health risks like weight loss, dehydration, and infections. To better understand a dementia patient who stops eating, you need to know the common causes, what it could mean for their health, and how you can support them through these challenges.
Why Do Dementia Patients Stop Eating?
There are many reasons why a dementia patient might stop eating. These can be physical, emotional, or related to how the disease affects the brain. Identifying the cause can help you decide on the best course of action.
Cognitive Decline
As dementia progresses, patients may forget how to chew or swallow food. A 2019 study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease found that difficulties with eating and swallowing (known as dysphagia) affect nearly 50% of patients in advanced stages of dementia. Dysphagia is common in advanced stages. Eating becomes a challenge, leading to reduced intake or complete refusal.
Loss of Appetite
Dementia has an effect on the area of the brain that regulates hunger. As a result, patients may not feel the need to eat even if they haven’t had food for hours.
Depression and Mood Changes
Depression is common in dementia patients and can cause a loss of interest in food. Emotional distress or anxiety may make eating feel overwhelming.
Medication Side Effects
Some medications can suppress appetite, cause nausea, or alter taste perception. This could be the result of your loved one starting another medication.
Physical Discomfort
Dental problems, such as mouth sores, cavities, or ill-fitting dentures, can make eating uncomfortable. Constipation, stomach pain, or other physical ailments may also lead to food refusal.
What Happens When a Dementia Patient Stops Eating?
When a dementia patient stops eating, it’s often a sign of underlying issues or the progression of the disease. This can lead to serious health complications. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Malnutrition and Weight Loss
Malnutrition occurs when the body does not receive enough nutrients. This can cause significant weight loss, weakness, and fatigue. Malnourished patients are more prone to falls, infections, and a faster decline in overall health.
2. Dehydration
If left untreated, severe dehydration can result in kidney failure, seizures, or unconsciousness, as well as dry mouth, dizziness, confusion, and low blood pressure.
3. Weakened Immune System and Infections
A lack of appropriate nourishment impairs the immune system. This enhances the risk of infection, notably pneumonia and urinary tract infections (UTIs). If not treated right away, these illnesses can be fatal.
4. Dysphagia and Aspiration Pneumonia
In the advanced stages of dementia, many patients develop dysphagia—difficulty swallowing. When this happens, food or fluids may enter the lungs instead of the stomach, resulting in aspiration pneumonia. If left untreated, this deadly lung infection can kill you.
5. Cognitive Decline
The brain requires a consistent supply of nourishment to function correctly. When a dementia sufferer stops eating, it might exacerbate their confusion, memory loss, and other dementia symptoms.
6. End-of-Life Process
In late-stage dementia, refusing food is often part of the body’s natural shutdown process. It does not always mean they are in pain; it is simply the body’s way of conserving energy. This is when hospice or palliative care focuses on providing comfort rather than forcing nutrition.
What Is the Life Expectancy of a Dementia Patient Not Eating?
When a dementia patient starts sleeping a lot and not eating, it often indicates they are in the late stages of the disease. Increased sleep and decreased food intake are natural shut-down mechanisms. How long they can survive without food and water depends on various factors, including their overall health and disease progression.
Without Food But Still Drinking Water
A person can survive for several weeks without food if they are still drinking water. However, their strength will decline rapidly, and their body will start shutting down.
Without Food and Water
If a dementia patient stops eating and drinking, life expectancy is usually around 7 to 14 days. This can vary depending on hydration levels and the body’s resilience. End-of-life care should focus on comfort and managing symptoms rather than forcing food intake.
How to Encourage a Dementia Patient to Eat?
While you can’t force someone to eat, there are gentle strategies you can use to encourage food intake.
Serve Favorite Foods
Offer familiar and comforting meals. Even if they no longer eat large portions, small servings of their favorite dishes can help spark interest.
Create a Calm Environment
Minimize distractions and make mealtime peaceful. Playing soft music and sitting together at the table may help create a positive experience.
Adjust Food Texture
If chewing and swallowing are difficult, switch to softer foods or pureed meals. Soups, mashed potatoes, and yogurt are easier to prepare.
Offer Frequent Small Meals
Instead of three large meals, try serving small portions throughout the day. This approach is less overwhelming and more manageable.
Hydration Alternatives
If your loved one refuses water, offer hydrating options like fruit smoothies, flavored water, or herbal tea. Keeping hydrated is as important as eating.
Address Physical Discomfort
Schedule regular dental check-ups and consult a doctor if you suspect pain or medication side effects.
Seek Professional Help
Involve a dietitian or speech therapist specializing in dementia care. They can recommend strategies tailored to your loved one’s specific needs.
When to Consider End-of-Life Care
When a dementia patient stops eating, it’s hard for caregivers. Knowing why it happens and how to help is important. Watch for changes, encourage gently, and get professional help if needed.
If your loved one persists in refusing food despite your diligent efforts, it might be more appropriate to prioritize comfort over nutrition. Hospice or palliative care can provide guidance and support during this stage.
End-of-life care doesn’t mean giving up—it’s about ensuring your loved one’s final days are peaceful and pain-free. This includes controlling symptoms, providing emotional support, and remaining present.
The primary purpose is to keep them safe and well-cared for. Focus on their well-being to ensure they feel supported and respected.