A man who revealed he has only eaten toast for the past five years because he can no longer taste things has helped inspire a high-tech spoon that enhances flavors for dementia sufferers.
The device, known as the Tasty Spoon, looks normal, but uses electrical stimulation to enhance the flavor of food for patients with loss of taste.
People with insanity They often have problems eating and drinking due to symptoms such as memory loss, inability to recognize food, and decreased sense of smell and taste.
This can lead to loss of weight and muscle strength in the patient.
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According to researchers, the spoon can help the user differentiate between foods.
Dr Christian Morgner, from the University of Sheffield’s business school, is leading the development of the project with the Healthy Lifespan Institute.
He said loss of taste “can take away the pleasure of food” – which in turn affects well-being.
“This is especially prevalent in patients who live alone or in public homes with more widespread nutrition,” he said.
“In a heartfelt revelation, one individual shared that he has only eaten toast for the last five years as for him there is no difference between toast and a normal Sunday roast.”
There are around 944,000 people in the UK with dementia, with one in 11 over 65s suffering from the condition.
The Tasty Spoon project has partnered with the Alzheimer’s Society Accelerator Program, which is supporting the market introduction of new products that help people living with dementia.
Simon Lord, head of innovation at the Alzheimer’s Society, said: “A healthy, balanced diet can help improve a person’s quality of life.
“However, common symptoms of dementia, such as memory loss and difficulties with thinking and problem solving, can make it more difficult to eat and drink well.
“That’s why we’re excited about the possibility that Tasty Spoon presents to improve the taste and enjoyment of food and subsequently improve the health and nutrition of people living with dementia.
“Innovations like this are vital as they focus on enriching everyday experiences and improving health and well-being.”
This story originally appeared on News.sky.com read the full story
