Comparison of Hand Feeding Techniques for Persons With Dementia

"Direct hand feeding technique: When the feeding assistant holds the object (e.g., fork, spoon, cup) intended to provide food or fluids to the PWD without any active involvement on the part of the PWD.~Hand-over-hand feeding technique: Occurs when the PWD is holding the object (e.g., fork, spoon, cup) in an attempt to feed/ drink for themselves. If the PWD has trouble with this activity, the feeding assistant puts his or her hand over the hand of the PWD, in an effort to guide/ support/ assist the PWD with the activity.~Hand-under-hand feeding technique: Occurs when the feeding assistant holds the object (e.g., fork, spoon, cup) and places the PWD hand over the top of their hand; therefore, the feeding assistants hand is under the hand of the PWD in a more supportive position."