Many people in stroke care have a struggle trying to eat, at least initially. Sometimes it is difficulty with chewing or swallowing, other times it’s the challenge of bringing food to the mouth. Additionally, if memory has been affected, the stroke care patient may even forget to eat.

Consult the doctor for help with a meal plan for stroke recovery, if needed. Consider the following tips, as well:

Encourage Your Loved One in Stroke Care to Eat

  • Create regular meal times. You will make meals more palatable by joining your loved one at the table. It will become an enjoyable routine for both of you if you maintain patience and refrain from rushing through the meal.
  • Offer food at times your loved one responds to best. Is late afternoon a better time to serve dinner than later in the evening?
  • Provide nutrient-dense foods. Offer your loved one whole foods as much as possible.
  • Pay attention to preferences. Naturally, your loved one might prefer certain foods over others. If he or she favors a specific food that is easier for them to chew or swallow, and it can provide nutritional value, this is a great food to offer!

 Softer Food Might Be Easier

  • Fruits and vegetables can be pureed: Experiment with nutritious whole foods, pureeing, or blending with additional ingredients for the best taste.
  • Offer yogurt: Yogurt can be a good choice because it’s easy to eat and digestible.
  • Try oatmeal: Oatmeal may be easier to eat than other grains like bread or rice.
  • Eggs: Scrambled or soft-boiled eggs should be pretty easy during stroke care assistance and they can provide protein and other beneficial nutrients.
  • Custard or jello: These desserts are usually enjoyed by all, however, they may have low nutritional value so you’ll want to offer them only on occasion.
  • Liquid nutrition: Protein shakes and alternative meal supplements might help stroke patients who can’t easily chew or swallow food.
  • No sticky or dry foods: Avoid peanut butter and rice that can create problems with swallowing. Try gripping utensils and specialized kitchen utensils that are designed with cushioned grips or even attachable straps to make eating easier.

Don’t Hesitate to Get Outside Help

If a loved one needs stroke care assistance, outside care is a great solution. At Home Care Assistance of Greater Burlington, we can provide services that seniors and their families can count on. Contact us today or  (802) 231-0415 to find out how we help seniors age in place. Inquire about home care or meal assistance and ease this difficult time.

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