Abstract
Families need guidance in making decisions on how to feed a loved one with late-stage Alzheimer's disease. Tube feedings have not been shown to extend life, improve nutritional status, or reduce pressure sores or aspiration and may have some negative effects on quality of life. Even so, they continue to be used widely. Assisted feeding may be an appropriate method when the therapeutic goal is comfort feeding. Resistance by health care professionals and surrogate decision makers to "withholding food" from a person with late dementia can be reduced with education