My husband’s capabilities have changed over time. Granted we have been on this journey for almost two decades and things would have changed regardless of his diagnosis. There are lessons I learned about nutrition and PD early on that still have relevance but that have become almost impossible to utilize. Swallowing issues, taste issues, chewing and manipulation of food in his mouth, the process of getting food to his mouth, all of these factors play a part in what he wants to eat. And if he doesn’t like the food or can’t manage it, then what’s the point in my making it anyway?

Most often we hear that a Mediterranean diet is the best choice. The recommendation is lots of salads, seafood, chicken, and a little red meat. So I bought the cookbook and started moving our meals in that direction years ago. However, as I mentioned above, my husband progressively struggles to manage eating fresh vegetables and salads need to be chopped so finely it is almost time to get out the blender. He doesn’t like fish, so that is off our table. My choices for meal prep are becoming less about what he should be eating and more about what he can eat safely.

We sit down together once a week and plan our meals before I go shopping. We talk honestly about what works and what doesn’t. I try my best to accommodate his dietary needs, always considering his physical capabilities while providing healthy alternatives. I keep in mind that I am going to be eating too and my preferences get to come into play occasionally. My journey as his CarePartner continues to be a learning opportunity in adaptability.