Dining & Nutrition
Many of our community chefs were trained at the nation’s top culinary institutes and it shows.
Nutritional Planning
- Balanced Meals: Meals are planned by or with input from a registered dietitian to meet the specific dietary needs of seniors (e.g., low-sodium, diabetic-friendly, heart-healthy).
- Customized Diets: Accommodations are made for residents with food allergies, religious or cultural preferences, and medical conditions requiring special diets (e.g., renal diet).
- Hydration: Residents are encouraged and monitored to maintain proper fluid intake, as dehydration is a common concern among seniors.
Meal Preparation and Service
- On-Site Kitchen Staff: Meals are typically cooked fresh daily by trained culinary staff.
- Scheduled Meals: There are usually 3 main meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and snacks are available at any time.
- Dining Options: Meals are served in our dining room to encourage socialization., though room service may be available if a resident is ill.
Mealtime Environment
- Social Engagement: Shared meals help reduce feelings of isolation and can improve appetite.
- Assistance with Eating: Staff is available to help residents who have difficulty feeding themselves, using adaptive utensils or techniques as needed.
- Comfort and Dignity: Dining area is designed to be calm, pleasant, and respectful of the residents’ dignity.
Monitoring and Feedback
- Regular Assessments: Weight and nutritional status are monitored routinely to detect issues like malnutrition or weight loss early.
- Resident Preferences: Menus often include choices, and feedback from residents is gathered to improve satisfaction.
- Family Involvement: Families may be included in dietary planning, especially for residents with complex needs.
Sample Weekly Menu
This menu can be adapted to low-sodium, diabetic, or vegetarian diets.