How a meal planner can help when caring for someone

Looking after someone with dementia can bring new challenges, especially when it comes to daily routines like eating. Creating a meal planner can be a game-changer, making life easier for both you and your loved one. 

What is a meal planner?

A meal planner is a simple, organised way to plan meals for the week. It’s like having a map that guides you through breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks, so you know exactly what’s on the menu each day. When you’re caring for someone with dementia, this planning becomes even more important.

A good meal planner helps:

• Ensure your loved one gets balanced, nutritious meals

• Save time and reduce stress because you know what to prepare each day

• Cater to their likes and dislikes, as well as any dietary needs

• Avoid confusion, as having a set routine can be comforting for someone with dementia

Why use a meal planner?

People with dementia can sometimes struggle with eating. They may forget to eat, not recognise food, or feel overwhelmed by too many choices. A meal planner can provide structure and familiarity, which can help make mealtime smoother.

By sticking to a regular meal schedule and including familiar foods, you create a sense of routine, which can reduce anxiety. Plus, knowing ahead of time what to cook means less decision-making for you!

How to create a meal planner

Ready to create your meal planner? Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Start with what they like

Think about the foods your loved one enjoys. Familiarity is key for someone with dementia, so build your meal plan around their favourite meals and snacks. For example, if they love porridge for breakfast, try to include that regularly.

2. Consider their dietary needs

Make sure the meal plan includes balanced nutrition. Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, proteins, and whole grains. If they have dietary restrictions, such as needing softer foods or having diabetes, factor that into your plan. Also consider any food allergies or intolerances.

3. Keep it simple

Dementia can make it harder to make choices, so try to avoid overwhelming options. Stick to straightforward meals with just a few ingredients, and keep the portions manageable. For example, a simple roast chicken with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables can be perfect.

4. Plan for three meals and snacks

Plan out breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a couple of snacks each day. Snacks can help if your loved one doesn’t eat much during meals. Easy-to-grab options like yogurt, fruit, or crackers work well.

5. Use a visual schedule

Once you’ve written out your meal plan, consider creating a visual version. You can print it out or use a whiteboard to display the weekly meals in a way that’s easy to see. Pictures of food can be especially helpful for someone with dementia who may struggle with reading.

6. Stay flexible

It’s important to have a plan, but also be flexible. There might be days when your loved one just doesn’t feel like eating what’s on the menu, and that’s okay. Have backup options ready, such as soups or sandwiches, that are easy to make and still nutritious.

7. Involve them in the process

If it’s possible, involve your loved one in the meal planning process. You can ask them what they’d like to eat or let them help prepare simple meals. This can give them a sense of control and connection during mealtime.

Example of a simple meal plan

Here’s an example of what a basic meal plan might look like:

Monday

Breakfast - porridge with fruit

Lunch - chicken sandwich

Dinner - grilled fish with mashed potatoes and peas

Snacks - yogurt, apple slices

Tuesday

Breakfast - scrambled eggs with toast

Lunch - tomato soup with bread 

Dinner - shepherd’s pie

Snacks - crackers with cheese, banana

Wednesday

Breakfast - cereal with milk

Lunch - tuna wrap

Dinner - chicken stew with carrots

Snacks - yogurt

Thursday

Breakfast - toast with jam

Lunch - pasta

Dinner - baked salmon with rice and veggies

Snacks - fruit smoothie, crackers

Friday

Breakfast - bacon sandwich 

Lunch - quiche with side salad

Dinner - roast chicken with vegetables

Snacks - rice pudding, sliced fruit

Using a meal planner when caring for someone with dementia can make a world of difference. It provides structure, reduces stress, and ensures your loved one gets the nutrition they need. Plus, it helps you stay organised and prepared for each day.