Keep Alzheimer’s patients on track in eating, sleeping patterns.

People with Alzheimer’s disease often develop problems with their diet because of confusion, physical changes or inability to focus on eating.Dr. Roger Rosenberg, professor of neurology and director of the Alzheimer’s Disease Center at UT Southwestern Medical Center, offers the following tips: 

• Offer the person the food he or she wants.
• Cut the food into small bites.
• Provide diversity.
• Offer a balanced diet.
• Assist the person in eating.
• Provide a light diet with abundant fruits and vegetables, including prunes, to help avoid constipation.

Alzheimer’s also often disrupts sleep patterns, although the reason for this is unknown. Patients may become agitated in the evening, a pattern known as “sundowning,” or they may wander at night.Dr. Rosenberg offers the following tips to promote calmer evenings and encourage sleep for those with Alzheimer’s:

• Keep a light on.
• After lunchtime, avoid stimulants such as coffee.
• Avoid liquids after 5 p.m.
• Provide a light dinner meal.
• Reassure the patient if he or she awakens with anxiety.
• Avoid dehydration.
• Consult with a physician about whether a mild sedative may be required.