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Updates from Carlyn Lenfestey

Meal Planning for Dementia: Routines, Portions, and Reducing Overwhelm

Meal Planning for Dementia: Routines, Portions, and Reducing Overwhelm
Mealtimes can become overwhelming when caring for someone with dementia—but they don’t have to be. In this post, we explore how simple routines, right-sized portions, and calm environments can transform meals into moments of comfort and connection. Learn practical strategies for dementia-friendly nutrition and download your free Nutrition Guide to make planning easier.

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Enhancing Mealtime Experiences in Dementia Care: Strategies for Caregivers

Enhancing Mealtime Experiences in Dementia Care: Strategies for Caregivers
Struggling with mealtime challenges in dementia care? You're not alone. Many caregivers face daily frustration when a person with dementia refuses to eat, forgets how to use utensils, or becomes agitated at the table. In this caregiver guide, you’ll discover expert tips for managing eating problems in dementia, including how to create a calm environment, encourage hydration, and use dementia-friendly plates and adaptive utensils. Learn how to reduce stress, prevent weight loss, and support better nutrition—while bringing more peace and connection to your daily routine. Whether you're caring for a parent with Alzheimer’s or supporting a loved one in the later stages of dementia, these practical strategies can help make mealtimes easier, safer, and more enjoyable for both of you.
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Why Nutrition Matters in Dementia Care: A Caregiver’s Guide

Why Nutrition Matters in Dementia Care: A Caregiver’s Guide
Mealtimes can be one of the most challenging-and meaningful-parts of dementia care. As the brain changes, so do taste preferences, appetite, and even the ability to recognize food. But the good news is that small, thoughtful adjustments to a person’s diet and eating environment can make a big difference.
In this post, we’ll look at how nutrition affects mood, behavior, and brain health-and how you can use simple strategies to turn mealtime struggles into moments of comfort and connection. Whether it’s choosing the right plate color, offering nutrient-dense snacks, or creating a calm eating space, every change you make is an act of care.
Caring for someone with dementia isn’t easy, but you’re not alone. Let’s explore how food can be more than fuel-it can be a daily opportunity to nurture both body and spirit.

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The Power of Nonverbal Communication in Dementia Care

The Power of Nonverbal Communication in Dementia Care
Learn how to use nonverbal communication to connect with someone who has dementia. Discover effective techniques for using body language, gestures, and facial expressions to enhance understanding and connection.

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Why Do People with Dementia Say Things That Aren’t True?

Why Do People with Dementia Say Things That Aren’t True?
When caring for someone with dementia, it can be challenging when they insist on things that aren't true. These statements may stem from old memories, confusion, or misinterpretations of their surroundings. Instead of correcting them, responding with patience and empathy helps maintain their dignity and reduces distress.

Avoid arguing or correcting as logic and reasoning may not work well as dementia progresses. Acknowledging their feelings, even if their statements aren't factual, shows respect and provides comfort. Using gentle redirection to shift their focus to another topic or activity can help when they fixate on an incorrect belief.

Responding to untrue statements with reassurance can help reduce anxiety and confusion. Entering their reality, using therapeutic fibbing, can be helpful in certain situations. Staying calm and patient, avoiding overexplaining, and providing comfort through touch and tone are key strategies in helping someone with dementia feel safe and understood.
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Meet Carlyn Lenfestey

Carlyn is a dedicated physical therapist with over 20 years of experience, holding a Bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences and a Master’s degree in Physical Therapy from the University of New England. For more than a decade, she has been a Certified Dementia Care Practitioner and Trainer. Her journey into dementia care began when her grandfather was diagnosed, and she watched her grandmother take on the role of caregiver. Over the years, as her remaining three grandparents were also diagnosed, Carlyn developed a deep commitment to helping caregivers.

Having cared for countless patients with dementia, Carlyn understands the struggles both personal and professional caregivers face. She has provided training and support to both groups, ensuring that caregivers are knowledgeable, equipped, and empowered. Driven by the belief that people with dementia deserve lives filled with joy and purpose, Carlyn is passionate about creating a better way to care for and support both individuals with dementia and those who care for them.


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