This is the final step in the CARES® Approach—and one that truly shapes the mealtime experience. Sharing with others about what happens during meals is essential in dementia care. It helps everyone involved in caregiving stay aligned, leading to more thoughtful, consistent support at the table.
Whether it’s a new food the person enjoyed, a calm way that helped reduce resistance, or a small sign of discomfort—sharing these observations helps the person with dementia feel better understood and cared for. It also builds stronger communication and trust among the care team and family.
When sharing your mealtime experience, keep these points in mind:
1. Clearly describe what the person ate, how they reacted, and what strategies you used.
2. Note what made things easier—or harder—during the meal.
3. Include specific details that might help others continue what works.
4. Don’t overlook the small things—they often make a big difference.
5. Always share with compassion and respect.
Remember: sharing isn’t just about reporting what happened. It’s about creating a supportive circle around the person—where everyone contributes to making mealtimes calm, dignified, and nourishing.
If mealtimes feel overwhelming while caring for someone with dementia, the CARES® Approach offers practical guidance—like the importance of sharing with others to create a supportive care environment. To help you get started, enjoy 10% OFF any training or certification program with code BeautifulAugust. Offer valid through Aug 31, 2025.