Nourishing Lives: The Vital Role of Dining Champions in Aged Care

In aged care, the significance of nutrition and dining experiences cannot be overstated. As people age, their nutritional needs change, requiring a more tailored approach to ensure they receive not only the sustenance they need but also the joy and comfort that comes with a well prepared meal. At Anchor Excellence, we highlight the vital role that Food and Dining Champions play in enriching the lives of aged care residents through dedicated training and best practices.

Nutrition is Different for Older Adults

Nutrition for older people is distinct from younger populations due to changes in how the body processes and absorbs nutrients. Understanding these differences is key for anyone supporting aged care residents. Here are some important factors:

• Higher Protein Needs: Older adults need 20% more protein than younger individuals to maintain muscle mass and body systems, and this requirement increases significantly if they are unwell or have skin integrity issues..
• Vitamins and Minerals: Ageing reduces the body’s ability to absorb nutrients efficiently, meaning careful monitoring and supplementation are essential.
• Weakened Appetite and Thirst Signals: As appetite and thirst cues diminish, there’s a higher risk of malnutrition and dehydration, which can negatively impact physical and cognitive health.
• Weight Loss Concerns: Unlike younger adults, weight loss in the elderly often leads to muscle loss, which can impair immunity, mobility and wound healing.

Addressing Malnutrition

Malnutrition poses serious risks in aged care settings. Even residents identified as “at risk” can experience severe outcomes such as weakened immune function, increased susceptibility to skin tears and pressure injuries, constipation, reduced mobility, social isolation and cognitive decline.

Through our tailored Food and Dining Champions training, participants are equipped with the knowledge to address these issues proactively. The program encourages staff to constantly look for opportunities to enhance the nutrition and dining experience of residents, resolve any concerns, and think creatively to ensure the best possible quality of life for those in their care.

Enhancing Appetite: Creative Approaches

Encouraging older adults to consume enough food often requires innovation:

• Embrace treat foods without focusing too much on sugar or salt.
• If a resident prefers dessert, make sure it’s packed with nutrients.
• Consider dementia-friendly options such as finger foods or culturally familiar dishes that are easy to eat and enjoyable.

Creating an Ideal Dining Experience

A pleasant dining environment has been known to greatly improve food intake. Key factors include:

• Minimising distractions with quiet and well lit dining areas to help residents focus on their meals.Medication trolleys should not form part of this dining experience.
• Fostering social engagement by encouraging family involvement during mealtimes, which can stimulate appetite. Staff are encouraged to engage with residents, fostering social interaction and connection.
• Ensuring comfort by arranging seating based on social preferences and allowing ample time for eating. Allow residents to enjoy their meals and not rush.

The Role of Food and Dining Champions

Food and Dining Champions are essential to ensuring that residents receive optimal nutrition through attentive meal preparation and oversight. Their role involves:

• Facilitating enjoyable dining experiences by engaging with residents before and during meals.
• Monitoring food intake and providing feedback if issues arise, such as the need for a dietitian referral.
• Encouraging the acceptance of prescribed nutritional supplements.
• Ensuring meals are tailored to individual preferences and intolerances to ensure dietary requirements are met.

Every Meal Matters

In aged care, every meal presents an opportunity for both nourishment and enjoyment. It is crucial that carers prioritise both aspects equally. By championing this approach through our Food and Dining Champions Training and Nutrition and Dining Experience Audits, we aim to significantly enhance the quality of life for older people in care.  

Get in touch with Ngaire Hobbins, APD to learn more about our Nutrition and Dining Experience Audits and tailored Food and Dining Champions Training. Together, we can create enhanced dining environments and ensure we meet the nutritional needs of older people.For further information, contact our main office at (02) 8610 1950 or info@anchorexcellence.com.