Poor appetite, taste changes and weight loss are often an issue when undergoing treatment for cancer or other chronic illnesses. The aroma of meals being cooked or even the thought of food can cause you to feel quite unwell.

Sometimes well-meaning family members can make things worse by presenting too much choice. This can result in the whole meal being rejected.

Susan Alexander is a founding member of the DAA Rehabilitation and Aged Care Interest Group and has many years experience in helping families through these difficult times. She has also taught palliative care at TAFE in NSW.