My grandad died last year and my nan has coped reasonably well being on her own after nearly 60 years of marriage, but I am a bit concerned as she has been losing weight and I'm worried she isn't eating very well.
She has recently moved into a smaller flat which doesn't have room for a table, which I think is putting her off as they never liked to eat on their laps but she doesn't have a choice now.
Any advice on easy things to eat whilst sitting down/other ideas about how to make sure she is eating enough would be really helpful. There are only so many times we can take her out for lunch/dinner!
EM1234 -- Although your nan doesn't have room for a table, can you set up a small folding table that is meant for temporary use? I am 86 years old and live in an independent living community that serves meals, but I also like to have snacks on one of those little folding tables that I leave up permanently. Making sure your nan is eating is not easy. Perhaps there are some kind of nutrition bars she could have as snacks. How old is she? Does she have to prepare her own meals? You may want to reevaluate whether your nan can continue living on her own. Although I am mobile and competent to take charge of my medications and finances, I realized a year ago that I could not continue living alone.
Hiya jaykay thanks for replying so quickly!
She is only 76 and is actually very active (she does her own shopping, goes swimming etc) and can keep the place tidy and clean and has her own kitchen etc. I think she is just so used to eating at the table it is a bit of a routine change for her. She only moved last month so haven't really thought of it before but a temporary table is actually a really good idea. She could then fold it away if she doesn't need it but it would be easier than her lap/a coffee table.
Nutrition bars are also a great shout.. we used to get high calorie ones for my grandad when he was ill so I might see what I can find.
That's great you took the decision yourself that you couldn't continue living alone.. it must be a hard thing to accept but actually means an easier life in the long run I bet?
Your nan is doing very well. Swimming is a wonderful activity for all aspects of health; I used to do it until a few years ago. Yes, you are right about my decision. I also made the move because my children don't live near me and still have teenagers at home.