Wondering how to meet the unique foodservice needs of your loved one during palliative care?
Food has a much greater role than simply providing calories and Nutrients to sustain life. Beyond nutrition, eating and drinking are social opportunities and represent basic pleasures in life. At end of life, some other steps we can take to maximize food enjoyment and safety may include:
The individual at end of life should be allowed to choose if and when to eat or drink. Force-feeding those who have lost their appetites and thirst may cause distress, even if it is well-intentioned by family or caregivers who feel compelled to get food into the patient.
Anne M. Harbord, MS, RDN
Board Certified Specialist in Geriatric Nutrition Consultant for Hospice of the North Coast