I first noticed this a few weeks ago when I brought my Mom a pill. She still had yogurt on her tongue and hadn't been eating that for perhaps an hour. I don't think she has chewing problems or tooth pain. She's a lifelong multitasker, stands at the counter to eat while reading the newspaper or mail. Maybe I need to encourage her to sit down and focus on just eating. I sure appreciate any input.
Studies have shown that "attentive feeding" generally results in better eating. Of course, the fact that the caregiver will always have no other distractions is unrealistic, but still attention matters and this attention while feeding counts as close interaction which likely explains Patrice's mother's response.
The genuine support you give each other always makes me smile.
Carol