Implications for practice and research

• Multifactorial rather than single component interventions are more likely to improve eating performance of older adults with dementia in long-term care.

• Future research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness and fidelity of interventions in real world settings with nursing caregivers rather than research assistants implementing the interventions.

• Longitudinal research designs are indicated to evaluate eating performance in the context of the progressive loss of eating ability associated with dementia.

Context

Ability to eat autonomously at mealtimes enhances social contact and interaction, supports adequate nutrition and intake, and promotes the enjoyment of food. Yet more than half of older adults with dementia living …