Parkinson's Disease Support Group

My father is 87 and in the later stages of Parkinson's but now he's finding it almost impossible to eat or drink as much as he needs to because he has trouble swallowing. He's asked for his food to be pureed, so they're doing that now. But without food or drink, he's been losing too much weight and could use the strength that can only come with being at least minimally well-nourished.

I suggested Odwalla's Original Super Protein Drink because my doctor suggested it to me when I'd wake up in the morning and needed to take my meds but found food repulsive......it's very high protein and has a decent amount of calories but even if my dad likes it, it's a small meal: 2 servings per bottle, each serving 10g Protein and 190 Calories.

I wondered if adding Brewer's Yeast to a soup or something would be a boost...however, I haven't looked to see if it's a good thing for Parkinson's Patients.

I'm autoimmune, so I know what works for me and what helped when I, like I said, found food repulsive: V8 juice is a full serving of vegetables and Soy Milk is another way of getting good protein and good flavor. But that's what appealed to me. My doctor who is semi-retired was also a nutritionist........but my dad and stepmom live in another city and I don't really have her around except for my current problems with the auto stuff.

So, again...........Help......Suggestions......Needed.......Food s that are appealing and easy to consume when you have trouble swallowing because of Parkinson's.

I apologize if this has gotten a bit repetitive and meanders but I wanted to post this sooner rather than later.

Thank you,

Cali

You didn't mention if he lives with you or in a nursing home, but in any event, you could ask his doctor (or nursing home if he's in one) if he could try the same protein shake that you've tried which might taste good to him.

I will warn you that when swallowing becomes an issue and since he is elderly, he might begin to consume a lot less than he had been accustomed to in the past. Unfortunately, that is part of how the disease progresses. I think it would be a good idea for you to discuss your questions with his doctor to get a better idea of what to expect of him as time passes.

I'm sure you and your family have been doing whatever you can to help your Dad and even if he doesn't show it, I'm sure he appreciates all your efforts.

If I can help you in any other way, do not hesitate to send me a PM. I would be more than happy to be there for you at this difficult time, and wish you and your family the best.

Janney550

I hear ya and I know it is scary and frustrating but it sounds like you are doing everything you can. I was diagnosis ed with PD in 2007 and there are certain foods I cannot eat anymore like spaghetti and such. Thicken drinks sounds like a really good idea. You can get it over the counter and it's called 'thick it' and you put it in everything he can drink.

I have also been suffering terribly from my IBS...been in and out of the hospital. The surgeon won't/can't do anything right now because I have lost too much weight because of the constant vomiting and diarrhea. My own body is breaking down my own body fat and muscle to survive so three times a week I go for fluids and anti-nausea medication through an IV to help me keep my food down to help build my strength back up so I can start eating food and keep it in.

I don't know know how possible that is for him or how realized that is for your dad. I was just trying to think of something.

Not to be rude but at this point I'd make sure he has a living will/power of attorney in place because it may come to the point that he may need a feeding tube. At this point it's really important to know his wishes.

Good luck my friend. I'll keep yous in my thoughts.

Hugs,

Kathleen

Steve