The Importance of Nutrition and Hydration for People Living with Dementia

At Boutique Care Homes, caring for residents living with dementia means understanding and supporting every aspect of their wellbeing—from meaningful activities and familiar routines to ensuring that mealtimes are a positive, comforting experience. Among the many factors that contribute to wellbeing, good nutrition and regular hydration are particularly important, helping to support cognitive health, physical strength, and emotional wellbeing.

However, many people living with dementia experience challenges around eating and drinking, which can put their health at risk if not carefully supported. Dementia UK (2024) highlights that some people may forget to drink, struggle to recognise drinks, or find it difficult to communicate thirst, leading to dehydration. Alzheimer’s Society (2024) notes that dehydration can worsen symptoms of confusion, constipation, and urinary tract infections, while Bournemouth University & Age UK (2024) emphasise that social settings, familiar foods, and the right dining environment can significantly improve mealtime engagement and overall intake.

At Boutique Care Homes, mealtimes and refreshments are designed with each resident’s preferences, abilities, and comfort in mind, ensuring that food and drink are not only nourishing but also familiar, enjoyable, and tailored to individual needs.

Why Good Nutrition and Hydration Are Essential for People Living with Dementia

Good nutrition and hydration play a central role in supporting both cognitive and physical health, but they are especially vital for people living with dementia.

According to Dementia UK (2024), even mild dehydration can reduce cognitive function by up to 10%, contributing to increased confusion and agitation. Alzheimer’s Society (2024) also stresses that dehydration can lead to increased risk of falls due to dizziness and low blood pressure, alongside a higher likelihood of infections and constipation. Additionally, Bournemouth University & Age UK (2024) explain that nutrient deficiencies—such as low levels of B vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids—can further impact brain function and overall health, making a balanced diet essential.

At Boutique Care Homes, we wholeheartedly recognise that food and drink are so much more than sources of nourishment—they are a way to provide comfort, connection, and even joy. Mealtimes are cherished moments in each day, offering opportunities to sit together, share stories, and nurture meaningful relationships between residents, families and the team. Through thoughtful menu planning, gentle encouragement, and a personalised approach, we help residents maintain both hydration and nutrition in ways that feel familiar, dignified, and enjoyable.

Staying well-hydrated also helps the body process medication effectively and can support better mood, energy levels, and overall wellbeing (Dementia UK, 2024). Combined with a balanced diet rich in brain-boosting nutrients, good hydration helps to preserve health, independence, and quality of life for as long as possible.

Common Barriers to Eating and Drinking for People with Dementia

There are many reasons why residents living with dementia may struggle with food and drink, including:

• Difficulty recognising food and drinks
• Reduced sense of thirst
• Changes in taste, often developing a preference for sweet or strong flavours
• Difficulties with coordination, such as holding cutlery or cups
• Swallowing difficulties, particularly in later stages
• Low mood or lack of interest in eating and drinking (Dementia UK, 2024)

Bournemouth University & Age UK (2024) highlight that sensory cues, such as using contrasting plates, familiar crockery, and serving favourite dishes, can help encourage eating and drinking. Additionally, creating a calm and relaxed dining environment—with reduced background noise and supportive, patient interactions—can help residents feel more at ease and more likely to engage with their meals.

At Boutique Care Homes, we embrace these principles while ensuring that every adaptation reflects who each resident is as a person. Whether it’s serving a favourite cup of tea in a much-loved mug, or preparing a dish that holds special meaning from their childhood, we strive to create a sense of familiarity and reassurance at every mealtime.

Practical Ways to Encourage Hydration for People Living with Dementia

Drinking enough fluid each day is crucial for maintaining health and comfort, but for residents living with dementia, this can become increasingly difficult. As Alzheimer’s Society (2024) explains, many people living with dementia may forget to drink, not recognise drinks, or struggle to communicate thirst. Some may also avoid drinking due to concerns about needing the toilet or fear of incontinence.

At Boutique Care Homes, the team supports hydration gently and consistently, using approaches such as:

• Offering drinks frequently, in small amounts
• Providing a range of options, from water and juices to herbal teas milkshakes and smoothies
• Encouraging fluid-rich foods like fruits and soups
• Serving drinks during relaxed, social activities where residents feel comfortable
• Using bright, easy-to-hold cups or familiar favourite mugs to make drinks more appealing

In addition to these approaches, the Boutique Care Homes team places great emphasis on understanding the personal preferences of each resident. From favourite drinks to preferred temperatures and familiar routines, we take care to honour those small details that make each resident feel comfortable and valued. We also believe that hydration can be gently encouraged through shared moments—a friendly chat over a cup of tea, or offering a refreshing smoothie during a group activity—turning hydration into a positive and natural part of daily life.

Personalised Nutrition and Hydration Support at Boutique Care Homes

At Boutique Care Homes, caring for residents living with dementia means understanding the whole person—their tastes, their lifelong habits, and the small comforts that help them feel at home. Nutrition and hydration are woven into this personalised care, ensuring that every meal, snack, and drink is not only nourishing but also meaningful.

Whether it’s a comforting cup of tea served in a favourite mug, a seasonal smoothie inspired by local produce, or a familiar home-cooked meal that sparks conversation and fond memories, every opportunity to eat or drink becomes a chance to connect, comfort, and care so good, it’s unexpected.

To discover more about Boutique Care Homes’ personalised approach to dementia care, please visit www.boutiquecarehomes.co.uk.

For specific home enquiries, please contact:

• • Chartwell House on 01843 260 970
  • Brampton Manor on 01638 597 130
  • The Burlington on 01932 220 338

Resources

• Dementia UK (2024), Good Hydration for a Person with Dementia. Available at: https://www.dementiauk.org
• Alzheimer’s Society (2024), Drinking and Hydration. Available at: https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support/daily-living/drinking-hydration
• Bournemouth University & Age UK (2024), Eating and Drinking Well: Supporting Older People. Available at: https://www.ageuk.org.uk/bp-assets/contentassets/2d42698f64294f3993e75b378eb3292a/eating-and-drinking-well-carers-guide.pdf