One way for a NA to help a resident with AD with eating is to
Answer (1)
When assisting a resident with Alzheimer's Disease (AD) during mealtime, Nursing Assistants (NAs) can use the following strategies to ensure the resident's comfort and safety:
Create a Calm Environment: Minimize distractions by ensuring a quiet and calm environment. This can help the resident focus on eating.
Provide Simple Choices: Offer the resident two choices of food at a time rather than presenting all options at once. This can prevent confusion and overwhelm.
Use Adaptive Utensils: Depending on the resident's needs, adaptive utensils such as weighted bowls or utensils with enlarged handles may make eating easier.
Offer Finger Foods: If the resident has difficulty using utensils, providing finger foods might encourage independence and make eating more enjoyable.
Assist with Fine Motor Skills: If needed, gently guide the resident’s hand to help them use utensils.
Monitor for Chewing and Swallowing: Keep an eye out for difficulties in chewing or swallowing, and be ready to assist or seek further evaluation if needed.
Encourage Hydration: Ensure the resident drinks fluids throughout the meal to prevent dehydration.
Use Positive Reinforcement: Offer encouragement and praise to make mealtime a positive experience.
By applying these strategies, NAs can help residents with Alzheimer's Disease maintain a connection with their mealtime activities, reducing stress and encouraging a better eating experience.
