Loss of Appetite

Considering that Muddear is already very small in stature and weight - less than 5 feet and under 100 pounds, I always worry when her appetite decreases.

For about the last two weeks, Muddear has exhibited a decrease in her appetite. Normally, not a breakfast eater, I am always concerned when she eats little or no dinner. For the past 5 years Muddear has taken medication to help increase her appetite; however, sometimes it just doesn't seem to work. I have read many articles about how patients with Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease have a tendency to lose their ability to taste foods. In addition, the types of foods that typically retain the best flavor are those heavily laden with sugar.

With that in mind, there have been times when the doctor encourages the feeding of a lot of sweets to make sure Muddear is getting enough calories. My concern - is that really good for her health? Especially since I have read other reports that encourage caregivers to refrain from serving too many foods high in sugar. Sugar has been linked to sleeplessness.

So what is a caregiver to do? At this point we give Muddear 1 or 2 Ensures per day. Yet, I fear that it really isn't enough. Muddear is small and her food portions are even smaller. I would compare her food intake at any one meal to that of a 6-year-old.

Any suggestions would be appreciated. 

Strawberry Milkshakes

About a month ago, we began giving Muddear Ensure as a dietary supplement. Muddear loves strawberry ice cream so I purchased the strawberries and cream Ensure, hoping she would find it enjoyable. To get Muddear to drink the Ensure, I resorted to playing a "Jedi Mind Trick." Muddear has the biggest sweet tooth, so I told her it was a strawberry milkshake. This way we both get what we want!

Saturday, Muddear stated that she wanted something sweet to eat after lunch. Of course, I saw this as an opportunity to give her an Ensure.

"Muddear, would you like a strawberry milkshake?"
"Oh yes, you know its been a long time since I've had one of those."

I chuckled, because Muddear drank an Ensure, codename strawberry milkshake, just a few days ago. Quickly, I ran to the kitchen, pulled out an Ensure and gave it to Muddear to enjoy. About 15 minutes later, I returned to her room to see if she was finished.

"Nikki, that was so good. You know its been about 10 years since I last had a milkshake."
"I am glad you enjoyed your shake. I will make sure I buy them more often."
"I would like another one. Can I have another one?"
"You want another one right now?"
"Yes, you know its been 40 years since I last had a milkshake."
"Has it been that long Muddear?"
"Oh yes. It was so good."

Yes, I did give Muddear a second Ensure. I would not want her to have to wait another 40 years to get a strawberry milkshake.

Pale and Worried

Perhaps I worry about things that I should not worry about, but unfortunately, I cannot help it. As usual, when I arrived home after work, I stopped by Muddear's room to say "hey!" and chat for a moment before beginning part two of the work day. You know, work at work then work at home. I immediately noticed that Muddear appeared very pale, almost ashen. I asked her if she was feeling okay, to which Muddear responded "yes." At that point, I was at a loss...and a little worried. I wanted to do something to "fix" the situation, but what? Therefore, I gave Muddear an Ensure. Of course, Mike asked me, "Why are you giving your grandmother an Ensure?" To which I responded, "I don't know, it just seems like the right thing to do. Maybe she is experiencing some vitamin or calorie deficiency."

I know you think I am nuts, it just made feel better to be able to do something. I will research WebMD today for potential causes. My last resort will be to contact the doctor if Muddear does not improve. I will keep you posted.