Dementia is often recognized by memory loss and shifts in behavior, but there are subtler signs that many overlook—especially those related to mealtimes. Expert care specialist Michael Berkley-Blezard from Elmfield Care Home, Old Sarum Manor, highlights a lesser-known symptom: changes in food preferences and eating habits.
According to Michael, sensory changes linked to dementia can alter how individuals perceive taste and smell. “Sensory issues are not always recognized as dementia symptoms and often go unreported,” he explains. These changes may lead someone with dementia to complain about dishes they once enjoyed or even refuse to eat altogether.
Supporting this, the Alzheimer’s Society notes that a person with dementia may begin to experience flavor differently, developing newfound likes or dislikes. For instance, a lifelong vegetarian might suddenly crave meat, or someone who avoids certain foods for religious reasons may start wanting those foods. Understanding these shifts can be challenging for caregivers, but they are important signals of cognitive change.
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As dementia progresses, these eating-related symptoms can become more severe. The Alzheimer’s Society warns that individuals may sometimes mistake non-food items—like napkins or soap—for food, either due to unrecognized objects or increased hunger.
Michael also advises caregivers to stay alert for other dementia indicators and encourages open conversations with loved ones. “If you notice these signs, talk to your family member and consider consulting a doctor,” he says. Early discussion can help guide care and provide support for both the individual and their family.
If you observe new or unusual complaints about food or sudden changes in eating habits in a loved one, it’s important to seek medical advice promptly.