Patient-centered care empowers residents to make informed choices about their treatment and well-being. While implementing comprehensive changes in care can be challenging, facilities can directly influence one key area: the food service and dining experience. For many residents, mealtimes are not just about nourishment; they are anticipated moments of pleasure that foster social interaction with staff and fellow residents. By enhancing their control over these experiences, we can positively impact mood and increase food intake, which is closely linked to improved clinical outcomes.
How Can We Create This Change?
Implementing the “Five Rights of Dining” can significantly enhance the dining experience:
- Preferences: Tailoring meals to residents’ individual tastes.
- Location: Allowing residents to choose where they wish to dine.
- Preparation: Preparing food according to residents’ preferences.
- Timing: Accommodating when residents want to eat.
- Choices: Ensuring all options are honored.
Strategies for Dining Improvements
Food Service Methods:
- Specialty Stations: Offer live cooking stations for omelets, soups, pastas, and salads.
- Open Dining: Implement extended hours and 24-hour dining options.
- Flexible Dining Styles: Provide room service, buffet-style dining, or restaurant-style experiences.
Resident Involvement:
- Engage residents in preparing their favorite recipes.
- Host culinary demonstrations.
- Create menu development committees to involve residents in meal planning.
Open Dining Concepts:
- Establish a kosher café accessible to residents, families, staff, and the public.
- Set up a cocktail or coffee shop for residents and their families.
Mealtime Activities:
- Infuse dining rooms with the aromas of baked goods.
- Encourage staff to share meals with residents to foster connections.
The Impact of Resident-Centered Dining
Research has shown that implementing resident-centered dining can lead to numerous benefits. Studies indicate reductions in the number of prescriptions per resident, average medication costs, and the use of mind-altering drugs. Additionally, there have been decreases in infection rates and mortality. Enhancing dining experiences can also alleviate feelings of loneliness, helplessness, and boredom.
Moreover, a shift towards a more inclusive dining culture is associated with improved physical health, including a reduction in pressure wounds, depression, and restraints, while promoting increased calorie intake and lowering the risk of malnutrition.
By prioritizing a positive dining experience, facilities can significantly enhance the quality of life for their residents, fostering a sense of community and well-being.
Reference: Niedert KC. Nutrition Care of the Older Adult: A Handbook for Dietetics Professionals Working Throughout the Continuum of Care. American Dietetic Association; 2004.