Memory Care: Improving Outcomes Through Nutrition

Dementia cases are projected to triple worldwide by 2050. Proper nutrition is critical to ensure quality of life and optimal health for people with dementia. Targeted mealtime strategies and person-centered dining can help minimize inappropriate behavioral symptoms that lead to inadequate nutrition intake. Review these recipes and resources ideas for help.

Finger Food Recipes and Resources

Declining motor difficulties and cognitive issues can make using utensils challenging. Finger foods promote self-feeding. The “on-the-go” feature is also a solution for those who tend to wander.

Search for these recipes and more in Cycle Menu Management using the trait feature. When searching, select More Search Criteria, then traits, and then select the Finger Food trait.

Finger Foods Flyer

Spaghetti Spinach Frittata

Tuna Mac & Cheese Bites

Turkey Quinoa Muffins

Cultural Recipes and Resources

Delicious Melting Pot: Exploring Global Foods Webinar

Culturally-familiar options resonate with a person as they are often tied to early memories. Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) encourage menus to reflect cultural preferences.

Search for these recipes and more in Cycle Menu Management using the trait feature. When searching, select More Search Criteria, then traits, and then select the Cultural trait.

MIND Diet Recipes and Resources

The "MIND" diet (Mediterranean-DASH intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) has been introduced to highlight foods that have show some evidence in staving off the cognitive decline and memory impairment that comes with dementia. For more information: https://www.rush.edu/news/diet-may-help-prevent-alzheimers

Search for these recipes and more in Cycle Menu Management using the trait feature. When searching, select More Search Criteria, then traits, and then select the MIND trait.

First Start Acai Bowl

Cumin Scented Salmon

Egg Pesto Cobb Salad

Garden Grilled Vegetables

Vegan Trio Salad

Hydration Recipes and Resources

Fluid Intake Documentation In-service

Hydration In-service

Hydration Station Support Items

Hydration Station Beverages

Harvest Valley Juice

Gordon Choice Beverages

Mosaic Tea

People with dementia are at higher risk for dehydration due to functional decline. It is important to create frequent opportunities to remind them to drink.

Search for these recipes and more in Cycle Menu Management using the trait feature. When searching, select More Search Criteria, then traits, and then select the Hydration trait.

Chocolate Malt Blended Coffee

Green Smoothie

Hand Crafted Soda

Mixed Berry Smoothie

Oregon Chai Milkshake

Peanut Butter Banana Shake

Wildberry Green Tea Smoothie

Fortified Foods Recipes and Resources

Real Food First In-service

Supporting nutritional needs through person-centered dining and real food choices is key. Fortify favorite foods with extra calories and nutrients to assure adequate intake.

Search for these recipes and more in Cycle Menu Management using the trait feature. When searching, select More Search Criteria, then traits, and then select the Fortified trait.