Information for Families, Carers and Loved Ones
As a person approaches the end of life, it is common for their appetite and interest in food and drink to reduce. This can be upsetting and worrying for family members and carers, but it is a natural part of the dying process.
Most people nearing the end of life do not experience hunger or thirst in the same way as before. The body’s needs change, and the focus of care shifts towards comfort, dignity, and quality of life.
Understanding Changes in Appetite
During the final stages of a life-limiting illness, the body gradually slows down and requires less food and fluid.
It is important to remember that:
- Reduced appetite is a normal part of the dying process
- People may eat and drink much less than usual
- Eating or drinking more than they want can sometimes cause discomfort
- The focus becomes comfort rather than meeting nutritional targets
At this stage, enjoyment and comfort are often more important than nutritional content.
Comfort Rather Than Nutrition
Food can provide comfort, pleasure and familiarity, even when only small amounts are eaten.
Helpful approaches include:
- Offering favourite foods and drinks
- Allowing the person to choose if and when they would like to eat
- Offering small portions
- Avoiding pressure to eat or drink
- Focusing on enjoyment rather than quantity
Even a few mouthfuls of a favourite food may provide comfort and reassurance.
Supporting Comfort and Wellbeing
There are many ways to provide comfort and support beyond food and drink.
You may wish to:
- Sit and spend time together
- Hold the person’s hand
- Read aloud
- Listen to music together
- Watch favourite films or television programmes
- Offer gentle massage or skin care
Companionship, touch and reassurance can remain important, even when a person is no longer able to communicate clearly.
Small Food Ideas
Small portions that are soft and easy to eat may be easier to manage.
Examples Include
- Yoghurt, custard or dairy desserts
- Ice cream or mini ice lollies
- Soft fruit such as melon, mango or grapes
- Small pieces of chocolate or favourite sweets
- Scone with butter and jam
- Soft sandwiches with fillings such as egg mayonnaise or tuna mayonnaise
- Cream cheese or cheese spread with soft bread
- Cocktail sausages or mini sausage rolls
- Small pieces of cheese
- Soft crisps
Allow the person to choose what appeals to them and only offer food if they wish to eat.
Drinks and Mouth Care
Keeping the mouth comfortable can often be more important than encouraging large amounts of fluid.
Helpful Tips
- Brush teeth gently with a soft toothbrush
- Keep lips moisturised with lip balm
- Use a small water spray if appropriate
- Offer small pieces of ice
- Offer ice lollies if tolerated
These simple measures can help relieve dryness and improve comfort.
Nourishing Drink Ideas
If the person would like a drink, small amounts may be easier to manage.
Suggestions include:
- Milkshakes
- Smoothies
- Milky coffee
- Hot chocolate
- Malted milk drinks
- Fruit juice
- Fruit squash
- Fizzy drinks
Using smaller cups or glasses may help make drinks easier to take.
Every Person Is Different
There is no single “right” way to approach eating and drinking at the end of life.
A helpful question to ask is:
“What is most helpful and comforting for this person at this time?”
The answer will be different for every individual and may change from day to day.
Further Information Available
This webpage provides a summary of eating and drinking advice at the end of life.
The full PDF resource includes:
- Guidance for families and carers
- Food and drink suggestions
- Mouth care advice
- Comfort-focused nutrition support
- Practical tips for supporting loved ones
- Ideas for small snacks and nourishing drinks
For complete guidance, please download the full PDF resource.
