about my motherinlaw

A lot depends on the stage she is in. If she is in a very late stage, her organs may be shutting down, which is natural.

If she is in earlier stages, she may need changes in food (lighter foods like fruit), shakes, etc. Most pills can be mixed with food, but check with the pharmacist as some pills shouldn't be crushed. If she won't eat or drink, and she is in earlier stages, she needs a doctor to figure out what to do. Eating becomes an issue, but not taking in fluids can be deadly.

I'm glad you wrote and I hope you'll keep asking questions. Keep in close contact with her doctor and if you aren't satified with her care, find another doctor.

Take care,

Carol

As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, there are many reasons eating can become a challenge.  Your mother-in-law may not be feeling the sensation of hunger as she did previously.  Stimulating her desire to eat by preparing food in her presence and stimulating her sense of smell can be helpful.  In addition, it may be possible that she is feeling confused by the actual task of eating.  It is important to make sure that the plate is not too “busy." In other words, a plate with a lot of food can be overwhelming to your mother-in-law and she may not know where to begin.  She may also have forgotten how to use utensils.  Offering her finger foods or simpler versions of certain meals can lead to more success.  Also, having someone eat at the same time and providing her with cues may help to encourage her to eat.
 
If your mother-in-law is not taking her medications you need to speak to a healthcare professional. Ask if the medications can be crushed or given in alternate forms such as liquid or a patch. It is important that you speak to her doctor before making any changes to her medications.  
 
Your mother-in-law may be dealing with a medical issue that is preventing her swallowing.  Alzheimer's disease affects the ability to coordinate the tongue, lips and jaw.  These changes may be caused by some new medication, a weakness in the muscles needed for swallowing, or other change in condition.  You should speak to a healthcare professional about your concerns. The doctor may refer you to a speech pathologist who can help make recommendations for a new swallowing program to improve your mother-in-law's nutritional intake.