My 77 year old, with dementia, and is mentally handicap, sister doesn’t want to eat and doesn’t seem to know how to use the utensils either.
I’m wonder if there is an organization with volunteers that would go into the nursing facility to help these folks to eat. The CNAs have to much to do and too many patients to care for and can’t feed all that need help.
I can’t go do this for her. I have been timing my visits at meal time but can only get there 2 to 3 times a week.
Any suggestions?
When my Husband was in rehab there was a separate room (unfortunately called the "Feeding Room") and staff would help the residents that were placed there.
The facility should have staff help those that need it.
You should not have to ask to find volunteers that would do that. I am guessing that the facility would not allow it just in case someone were to choke. (I volunteer at a Hospice and in order to help a patient eat we have to have specific training)
I think in your case you need to become a "squeaky wheel" to get your sister the help she needs.
They legally cannot force her to eat. They can spend only so much time and staff to coax her only so much and then they have to go tend to the other residents, due to chronic staffing shortages.
Maybe contact churches and other faith-based organizations near her facility to see if they have a Care Ministry. Then explain your needs and see if they are willing to solicit for volunteers from their church. You don't have to be a member or even a believer.
If you have a local senior center, contact them, or your local Area Agency on Aging for possible other resources.