Ensuring good food and nutrition for older people in aged care is essential for their wellbeing. The generation in aged care homes today has experienced significant challenges, including world wars and the Great Depression. They deserve fresh, flavourful and nutritious food. Aiming for up to 30 grams of protein per meal every day helps maintain their strength and vitality.

As we age our appetite can decrease, and medical issues such as stroke and dementia can affect our ability to swallow and chew, sometimes causing dysphagia. Increasing daily protein intake is crucial to maintain muscle strength and prevent falls. Unfortunately many aged care facilities rely on ultra-processed pre-made meals which may lack essential nutrients. Often residents are offered meals they don’t find appealing, impacting their health and emotional wellbeing.

FSANZ’s Standard 3.3.1 addresses these concerns by ensuring food businesses take extra care when preparing food for vulnerable populations, including the elderly. Adhering to this standard means implementing stringent food safety practices and having a trained food safety supervisor. This supervisor ensures the facility purchases, prepares and stores food safely, significantly reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses.

For those working in aged care, providing meals that meet nutritional needs and appeal to the elderly can make a big difference. Using fresh ingredients and preparing meals onsite can enhance the quality of food served. Offering a variety of choices and making meals visually appealing can encourage residents to eat more and enjoy their food.

Malnutrition is a serious concern in aged care. According to Karly Bartrim, a dietitian and aged care interest group convenor at Dietitians Australia, 68 per cent of people living in aged care are malnourished or at risk of malnutrition. Furthermore, up to one in two elderly Australians in the community may have an insufficient diet. These statistics highlight the urgent need for improved nutrition and dining experiences in aged care facilities.

Maggie Beer, a passionate advocate for better food in aged care, has dedicated herself to improving the dining experience in these facilities. In her new ABC iview series Maggie Beer’s Big Mission, Maggie and her team explore the impact of enhancing one aged care home’s dining experience. The challenges are significant but the positive changes for residents and staff make it worthwhile. Maggie is working to implement these improvements across Australia, reflecting our collective values in how we care for older people.

Your role in aged care is incredibly important. By understanding and implementing better food standards, we can ensure our elderly residents receive the nutritious, delicious meals they deserve. This mission is not just about food; it’s about honouring the lives and experiences of those who came before us, ensuring they live their later years in comfort and health.

Embracing these principles can transform aged care dining into an experience that brings joy and sustenance to residents. Even small improvements in the dining experience can lead to significant benefits in their overall wellbeing. Let’s work together to make a positive difference, one meal at a time.

Please visit the CFT website www.cft.edu.au for more information.  You can also contact CFT’s friendly team on 1300 665 633 if you wish to discuss your training needs.