When you are caregiving for an Alzheimer’s patient, it can be difficult for both of you to continue to have a normal life. But it is a good idea for both of you to try to continue to do normal activities outside of the home, within the limits of your patient. One of the outings that can do your loved one good is to take her out to eat.

One of the largest issues in taking an Alzheimer’s patient out in public is the stigma that is associated with the disease. Your loved one probably will not be aware of it, but this can certainly be a big emotional issue for you, the caregiver.

Some caregivers are able to get over this hurdle by keeping a card with them that they hand to service staff, or to people they deal with in public. It might say something like, ‘My mother has Alzheimer’s disease. She could say or do unexpected things, but she will not do any harm. Thank you for your understanding.’

Tips for Going Out to Eat

Generally, going to a fancy restaurant with uncomfortable chairs and fancy linens is not going to work well. Going to a family restaurant with booths will work best. You may want to try to go to the restaurant on a week day in the middle of the day, when it is not so crowded. Some Alzheimer’s patients do not react well to crowds, but it will depend upon your loved one.

Try to go to the restaurant at about the same time each week. This will get your loved one into the swing, and you also may discover that you and she can make friends with some of the patrons and workers. This can really help to give your mom the socialization she needs.

More tips:

  • If your mother has a favorite restaurant that is not too fancy, try to go there. Make it part of your normal routine.
  • Make sure there is easy access to the restaurant. The booth should be easy to reach, and there should be little wait time.
  • If there is slower service that day, you can play games with the menu. You can have her read the menu to you and ask her which foods she likes.
  • Do not sit with your loved one in silence. Always have something to say or a game to play.
  • Locate a restaurant with good, kind staff. This can really make your day! There are many kind, understanding folks out there, so make sure you find a restaurant that has a staff that is going to be nice to your mother.
  • Try to get a booth that is near the restroom. If she has to go, you want it to be easy to access quickly.

Going out to eat with your loved one with Alzheimer’s disease really is a good idea, as it helps to get her some socialization.

Some Alzheimer’s products that can help you at the restaurant table with eating include these dining aids: