The Alzheimer's Diaries: Losing Weight

My husband has always loved to eat and was happy to consume anything that was placed in front of him. I was happy about that and flattered myself that he liked my cooking, which I worked diligently to improve as time went on. But the truth is that he liked everybody's cooking. And that's a good thing, since institutional cooking isn't always what you'd call "gourmet."

But he can't feed himself now and is dependent on others for his nourishment. Would you like him to have a sandwich (and here I mean nut butter and jam, not turkey and bacon and lettuce and tomato, all of which would fall out and make a mess) or drink a glass of water at snack time? He might be looking at what you're offering, but sometimes it's as though he doesn't see it. He may or may not reach for it. You will have to place the item in his hand and wrap his fingers around it, encouraging him to raise it to his lips, open his mouth, and take a bite or a drink. Step by step. Happily, he can still chew and swallow.

At mealtimes, he may or may not approach the table when encouraged to do so. He may or may not shuffle right past you as you offer a chair. He may sit down, or he may walk away. Is he refusing to sit, or is he unable to understand? Does he forget what he's doing as he's doing it? It's hard to say. It's impossible to know whether he's confused about the whole thing or whether he knows what to do but can't, or won't. He's unable to verbalize his needs.

He can no longer navigate silverware and must be fed, one mouthful at a time. The caregivers tell me that they often simply follow him around with his food plate, offering a bite now and then until he's eaten everything. I know this is true, because I have seen them do it. And I have done it, too.

Even though his appetite is good and he is eating well at mealtimes and at snack times, he appears to be losing weight and muscle. His clothing is now too large and hangs on him loosely. Perhaps this is because he generally paces intermittently when he's awake, burning calories.

Or perhaps it's just the normal progression of Stage 7. Your body eventually stops being able to absorb nutrients the way it should, even though you are eating plenty of food. Here's a pamplet I found about that, if you'd like more information. And here are some photos, so you can see the progression for yourself.

October, 2017
One Year Ago
Looking perfectly healthy. Looks can be deceiving.

End of March, 2018
Just before initial placement, just over 6 months ago.
Still looking healthy, but a sea change in the dementia from
same time the year before.