Abstract
Dementia is a syndrome that affects millions worldwide. The syndrome can cause great distress not only for the diagnosed individual but also for the family and friends who provide care. It is known that many caregivers for people with dementia face difficulties in planning and preparing meals, feeding, and making nutritional decisions for their loved ones. Several diets have been shown to assist with dementia-related symptoms pre and post diagnosis. However, what is unknown is whether caregivers are aware of the benefits of these diets and what the barriers are to implementing them into their nutrition regime. This study surveyed primary caregivers for people living with dementia. Data was collected using an online survey made up of 28 open and closed ended questions. Results indicated that caregivers find dementia-specific nutritional important but see challenges in implementation such as difficulties eating, inflexible food choices, or declining to eat. Findings may have implications for caregiver education programs designed to relieve caregiver stress.
Advisor
Jeffrey A. Buchanan
Committee Member
Aaron Hoy
Committee Member
Kristen C. Abbott-Anderson
Date of Degree
2021
Language
english
Document Type
Thesis
Degree
Master of Science (MS)
College
Social and Behavioral Sciences
Recommended Citation
Freitag, D. (2021). Caregiver knowledge and perceptions of dementia-specific nutritional approaches [Master’s thesis, Minnesota State University, Mankato]. Cornerstone: A Collection of Scholarly and Creative Works for Minnesota State University, Mankato. https://cornerstone.lib.mnsu.edu/etds/1082
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