Most credit the Earl of Sandwich, John Montagu, with the creation of the sandwich as he’d ask his valet to get him meat between two pieces of bread to satisfy his hunger during card games. Other accounts put the creation of a sandwich much earlier.
No matter when the sandwich was created, it remains a convenient way to get protein, grains, vegetables, and dairy at the same time. It’s a great finger food for people with Alzheimer’s disease. Celebrate National Sandwich Month with a few sandwiches that are perfect for your mom.
Start With the Right Bread
You do need to consider the best bread for finger sandwiches. Your mom is going to start having a harder time swallowing, so soft bread is important. Bread made with white wheat flour has plenty of fiber, which helps prevent constipation. It’s not grainy or filled with seeds, so it’s easier to swallow. Sourdough and seedless rye are other good options. If your senior needs transportation to and assistance with grocery shopping, Alzheimer’s home care can be there to help.
Choose Nutritious Fillings
Egg and tuna salad are both sandwich fillings that are high in protein and don’t require a lot of chewing. Canned chicken is also very tender. Chop watercress and mix it in. Watercress has a peppery flavor and is packed with antioxidants like vitamin C.
Peanut and almond butter are also high-protein options. If your mom likes peanut butter and jelly, opt for a watery version and spread a thin layer. Natural peanut butter can be thinner and less sticky when swallowed.
Mix cream cheese with some pureed vegetables. Spread that on bread. If your mom can chew cucumbers, you could add thinly sliced cucumbers to these sandwiches for the water content.
Scrambled eggs are another good sandwich filling. Mix eggs, milk, cheese, and items like diced peppers and onions that you fry until soft.
Do you have any chickpeas in the cupboard? Drain them and put them in a bowl. Use an immersion blender to puree them. If you only have a blender, put them into the blender. Add a couple of cloves of garlic, some olive oil, and the juice of a lemon. Homemade hummus is quick to make and full of protein and fiber.
Cut the Fingers Wide Enough to Pick Up
When you’re cutting finger sandwiches, aim for fingers that are large enough for your mom to pick up. Her fine motor skills may not be that good. You may want to cut the sandwiches into quarters instead of fingers. Take off the crust if she has a hard time chewing bread crust.
Make sure you also take care of yourself. Go out with your spouse or friends, spend time with your kids, or stay home and catch up on sleep. While you do that, an Alzheimer’s care aide can take care of your mom. Alzheimer’s home care is easy to set up and ensures you don’t burn out.
If You Or An Aging Loved One is Considering Alzheimer’s Home Care in Arvada, CO, Please Contact The Caring Staff At Assisting Hands Home Care Today! 720-780-7755.
