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Real members of myALZteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
November 7, 2018
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Answer Summary

Members responded to a caregiver whose mother with late-stage dementia had stopped eating, offering both compassionate guidance and deeply... Read more

Members responded to a caregiver whose mother with late-stage dementia had stopped eating, offering both compassionate guidance and deeply personal experiences. Several members shared practical strategies including giving time and space for the person to approach food at their own pace, checking for underlying medical issues like constipation or urinary tract infections, and considering medications like Mertazapine that can stimulate appetite while addressing depression. A recurring theme was the heartbreaking reality that refusing food can signal the final stages of the disease, with one member sharing how her own mother peacefully passed surrounded by family after stopping eating and drinking, while others described navigating suspicion, relying on nutritional supplements like Boost, and leaning heavily on prayer and taking things one day at a time.

A myALZteam Member

This happened to my Mum, she stopped eating in September, this happened before, in 2016, when she wasn't in the later stages of this cruel disease, but it was sorted by taking her off aricept (her alzheimer's medication) as apparently, when it stops working it can upset the tummy and she was put on Mertazapine as an anti-depressant. It worked wonders as the Mertazapine also helps to increase the apetite.

Unfortunately, this time, it was time to let her go, she even went off custard!! Four weeks after refusing food (other than up to 4 teaspoons of custard every now & then, she also stopped drinking. With the support of the doctors, hospice at home & the district nurses, we made the decision not to force her to eat & any food or drink was for comfort, not for nutrition. She passed away 5 days later (23rd Oct), with her husband, my sister & I at her side.

Other than considering anti-depressants I'd say, get her GP to check that she isn't constipated as this can easily cause a blockage, characterised by an unwillingness to eat and fecal overflow where very soft, even liquid poo gets round the blockage and gives the impression that the person is passing ok. Oh & always check for a urine infection.

November 20, 2018
A myALZteam Member

My mom eats breakfast everyday, and anything sweet 😂....rest the time she'll drink 1-2 boost's a day...

January 5, 2019
A myALZteam Member

Sorry for your loss.Thankyou very much for your advice I will speak to the doctor.

November 22, 2018
A myALZteam Member

Sorry to hear of mum's death but nice that she passed surrounded by love.

November 20, 2018
A myALZteam Member

Kevin is at this stage off and on. What I do is make it and let him see that its on the table. Sometimes he may not sit down for a half hour ...but he will eventually walk up and sit down and eat...I would recommend that you let her know its there and give her time to eat in her own time..good luck!

November 7, 2018

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