6 Tips for Dining Out with Seniors with Dementia

Dining out at a restaurant is an enjoyable social experience for most people. Both the break in routine and the social connections involved can provide a nice diversion from normal life.

While going to a restaurant can also be a pleasant event for those with dementia, it does present its own set of challenges as well. The very change in routine and social connections that healthy people enjoy can be quite stressful for seniors with dementia – as can be menu choices, an unfamiliar environment, and overwhelming stimulation.

That’s not to say that it’s better to keep those with dementia home, however. Instead, using adaptive strategies, and preparing in advance for how the family or caregiver will handle specific situations, can go a long way toward making restaurant dining a positive outing and minimizing stress for all parties involved.

Here are six practical ways to start:

1. Choose a dementia-friendly venue. Remember that extra stimulation contributes greatly to stress for the person with dementia. Picking a place that has a calmer, quieter environment will help reduce agitation and confusion. It’s also helpful to choose a spot that’s familiar to the older adult, and that has a bathroom that’s easy to access and is large enough for you to provide assistance if needed. Try to find a place that serves food your loved one likes, doesn’t take long to prepare the meal, and has helpful staff.
2. Choose an ideal time of day. Going out during the time of day the person with dementia typically feels their best increases the chances of having an enjoyable experience. Many adults tire later in the day, so if you’re going out to dinner, aim for an early bird special. Even better – go out for lunch. If you arrive at 11am, you’ll likely miss the crowds and get faster service – or if the person needs a late-morning nap, you could try for a late lunch after the noon busyness has died down.
3. Bring along dining or bathroom items that will be helpful. If your older adult typically uses special adaptive utensils, dishes, or a cup, feel free to bring them with you to the restaurant. You may also want to bring moist wipes or any items needed in the bathroom. Bring along an extra sweater if s/he might get cold, or a stylish clothing covering if he or she tends to be a messy eater.
4. Simplify the ordering process. Menu choices can easily overwhelm the person with dementia. Perhaps only suggest a couple of favorite meal options, or let them look at meal pictures. If possible, ask to be seated in a quiet area, or at a table where the older adult can sit faced away from the crowd. Let the server know about any special needs, such as extra napkins or silverware, and notify waitstaff if you will need speedy service or would prefer all food comes at once rather than serving an appetizer and entrée separately.
5. Keep the outing short. Older adults with dementia tend to tire easily and quickly. Aim to keep your restaurant outing brief to avoid them becoming anxious or uncooperative. For example, you could skip the appetizer, choose dishes that don’t take much time to prepare, or get dessert to go. Be on the lookout for any signs of fatigue and leave before things get out of hand.
6. Let others know your companion has dementia (optional). It may be helpful to find discreet ways to let others you might encounter during your outing know that your senior has dementia. This could allow them to feel more compassion and less impatience. One effective method is by handing out awareness cards to waitstaff or surrounding diners. Here’s an example of a free download of “Alzheimer’s – Please Be Patient” cards. Dispersing these discreetly will avoid embarrassing the person with a public explanation.While taking your older person with dementia out to a restaurant can have lots of benefits, it does come with its own set of risks. Following these pointers can go a long way toward making the adventure a memorable and fun occasion!