Meals and groceries
Meals are often one of the first things to slip when someone needs more help, and one of the easiest to share out.
Download the PDF
How to use it
- Plan the meals for just the days that need help this week.
- The sheet has room for food your parent likes, any food or drink rules from the doctor or nurse, who helps with which meal and who shops.
- If chewing or swallowing is getting harder, ask the doctor or nurse.
Finding the part of mealtime that needs help
Your parent may have food at home but still find meals hard. Ask what gets in the way, and with their okay, share a meal to see where help fits. Keep their tastes and any food or drink rules from the doctor or nurse in mind.
If shopping or cost is hard, offer a ride or shop from a list your parent chooses, and ask about meal delivery or a local group meal. If packs or cooking are hard, help with that step: open a pack, set food within reach, or leave a meal with clear heating steps. If eating alone is the problem, arrange a meal with a friend or a short visit.
For local meal help in the U.S., call Eldercare Locator at 800-677-1116 and ask about cost, delivery, and who can use the service. Tell the clinic about weight loss, pain, or coughing at meals, and ask about a swallowing check. If choking blocks breathing or speech, call 911.
