Dementia sign that’s spotted in the way we eat says psychologist

Dementia currently affects more than six million Americans, according to the National Institutes of Health

While memory loss, mood swings, and confusion are often the first symptoms associated with dementia, one psychologist is drawing attention to a lesser-known sign related to our eating habits. Dr. Kellyn Lee, a chartered psychologist at the University of Southampton with extensive research experience in dementia and mental health, has highlighted the connection between cognitive decline and diet.

Right now, the condition affects more than six million Americans. “So, when we think about food, quite often we have known that person for a long time,” she said in a recent TikTok. “We know what they eat, we know what they like and what they don’t like.

“But when dementia enters our life, because the messages that are being sent, the way that the brain isn’t working as it used to, this can bring about lots of different changes. So, for example, somebody who has always loved fish and chips now does not like them.

“Does not want to eat it. Somebody who has always enjoyed a roast beef lunch, absolutely no way will they eat it. Now, this can be because the tastes change, ok, so what I used to like no longer tastes nice to me.

“Sensory changes, such as the texture of food. So, the texture of food can feel different to me, so something that used to be ok in my mouth is no longer ok.”

Dr. Lee’s observations are not unique. The UK-based Alzheimer’s Society has also acknowledged changing eating habits as a common sign of dementia.

It noted that even a lifelong vegetarian may suddenly opt for meat, or an individual who abstains from pork for religious reasons may forget this was ever a factor. As dementia advances, people may then start putting non-food items in their mouth, such as napkins or soap.

While dealing with these situations can be daunting, experts emphasise the importance of awareness and vigilance. “It can be helpful to ensure everyone involved in the person’s care is aware of this behaviour,” the Alzheimer’s Society has said.

“Where possible, remove non-food items which could be mistaken for food, and lock away any harmful substances like cleaning products. Be vigilant and remove small items that may be easily placed in the mouth.”

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In addition, Dr. Lee mentioned that people with dementia often forget they have eaten meals and may request a second dinner or lunch. To address this, she recommends using a ‘distraction task’ approach.

“People may forget that they have already eaten, and then they may want to have more,” she said. “So, you may have just had lunch and then give it half an hour and you might be sat in the lounge and the person says, ‘Ok, so are we having lunch now?’, or, ‘When are we having lunch? We haven’t had lunch yet.’

“Then you might say to the person, ‘We have had lunch, we’ve had lunch already.’ That can then escalate into either an argument or anxiety for the person because they can’t recall having that.

“So, it may be a case of that you say, ‘Ok, we can have lunch in a moment,’ and then you use a distraction task.”