CDP Nutrition & Hydration Care Flashcards

A person with late-stage dementia consistently spits out food. The most appropriate response is to:

Answer: Try a different food texture or temperature and consult a speech therapist

Exploring texture and temperature preferences may resolve refusal, and a speech therapist can assess safety before escalating interventions.

Which sensory strategy may stimulate appetite in a person with dementia who shows disinterest in eating?

Answer: Allowing the person to smell familiar foods before the meal

Familiar food aromas can trigger appetite and positive mealtime associations through preserved sensory memory.

What is a key indicator that a modified texture diet may need reassessment?

Answer: Consistent weight gain and no choking episodes over 3 months

Sustained weight stability and absence of aspiration signs suggest the current texture may be more restrictive than needed, warranting reassessment.

Which practice best preserves the dignity of a person with dementia during assisted feeding?

Answer: Sitting at eye level, offering small bites, and following the person's pace

Eye-level positioning, small bites, and respecting pace demonstrate respect and create a calm, safe mealtime environment.

When should a dementia care team hold a family meeting specifically about nutrition?

Answer: When significant unintentional weight loss or feeding difficulties emerge

Significant weight loss or new feeding difficulties trigger an urgent interdisciplinary and family discussion to align care goals.

Why is offering food choices important for a person with mid-stage dementia?

Answer: It supports autonomy and may increase willingness to eat

Offering limited, simple choices preserves a sense of control and personal preference, improving mealtime engagement.