Dad eats nothing but junk food.

Dear Grassflower: Dad has dementia and often says or does embarrassing things in public. Since I can’t take him out to eat any more, our outings have been to places like Sonic and McDonald’s. The problem is, now he won’t eat anything else. I’ve tried ordering pick-up from places like Applebee’s or Chinese take-out, but all Dad wants is tater tots and ice cream. I feel like he’s not getting enough nutrition, but if I order something that’s actually good for him, he won’t eat it. What should I do?

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Dad won’t eat.

90-year-old dad has had dementia for 5 years. He forgets people, repeats himself, the usual. He’s never been a big eater, but lately he barely touches food. The staff at his facility tell me it’s normal in the later stages of dementia. I guess I’m wondering if there are any tricks I can do to keep him eating, because if he doesn’t eat, he won’t be here long.

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