Date Presented 04/03/2025
This study explored caregiver insights regarding changes in cooking among people with dementia. Findings showed increased caregiver burden as more cooking assistance was required, highlighting a need to support cooking as a shifting occupation.
Primary Author and Speaker: Diana Cadena
Additional Authors and Speakers: Alexis Feliciano, Kristen Sarai Martinez, Leslie N. Nicole Martinez, Ayleen Giselle Mena, Victoria Andrea Nunez, Chastidy Skye Urteaga
Contributing Authors: Daisy Celeste Alvarado, William Roberts, Evelyn Garibay
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to describe the changes caregivers perceive in cooking in individuals living with dementia and the strategies that help the person with dementia continue participating in cooking. The study answered the following research questions: 1. What are the caregiver-perceived changes in cooking among individuals living with dementia, 2. What are the reported changes in caregiver roles regarding cooking, and 3. What are the reported strategies implemented to facilitate continued participation in cooking?
DESIGN: A convergent parallel mixed-methods design explored caregiver experiences and strategies in helping individuals with dementia cook. Using convenience and purposive sampling, 21 caregivers were recruited based on criteria including regular involvement in meal preparation and the loved one's prior cooking history.
METHOD: A structured questionnaire including questions on cooking behaviors and the Caregiver Burden Scale assessed changes in cooking, caregiver roles, and burden. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to explore demographics and group differences in reported cooking patterns and caregiver burden.
RESULTS: Caregivers reported that their loved ones cooked more frequently before their dementia diagnosis. Caregivers reported a decline afterward due to increased dependency. This shift requires caregivers to adapt emotionally and take on practical responsibilities. Caregivers frequently reported strategies like cueing and supervision to help maintain engagement in cooking.
CONCLUSION: The study highlighted the need for targeted support for caregivers, particularly focusing on enhancing resources and strategies that address the unique challenges faced when caring for their loved ones with dementia while cooking.
IMPACT: It highlights the importance of caregiver roles, potentially influencing dementia care, while contributing to evidence-based practices and client-centered care in occupational therapy.
References
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