Diet and nutrition play integral roles in the health of everyone, not least those living with dementia. Accessing the right meals and foods at the right time is essential, with a suitable source of quality ingredients, fruit, and vegetables all playing an important role in on-going health. For those living with dementia, there’s also the need to have access to the right nutrients – ranging from folic acid to omega 3 – and the necessary vitamins that will help boost brain health and help avoid additional health issues.
For those with loved ones that are living in care homes, knowing that those with dementia are enjoying access to suitable foodstuffs should be assured. However, unless you are present and able to review meals and witness them eat, there will always be uncertainty and concerns that your loved one is not eating well. At Avante Care & Support, we aim to help allay any fears and provide added advice.
Care home regulations
Good eating habits are important to on-going health and well being. When residing at a care home, Regulation 14 of the Health and Social Care Act 2018 ensures that providers are required to ensure that suitable nutrition and hydration needs are fulfilled, with any specific nutritional needs fully assessed and adhered to. The Care Quality Commission will be responsible for monitoring care home providers and ensuring the standards and requirements necessary are complied with.
The assessment of one’s dietary needs should also be reviewed on a regular basis, taking into account any allergies, intolerances, and medical contraindications. Plus, snacks and other food should be provided in between the three main meals of the day – this is of particular importance to those with dementia who may have a tendency to forget meals or overeat.
Supplementing meals
Most – if not all – care homes will also provide ample storage and refrigeration facilities for individual residents, meaning you will be able to shop for additional items that may not appear on menus. This can be snacks and particular favourites of your loved one, fresh fruits and meal replacement drinks if they often have difficulty eating.
In addition to food, you can also discuss with the GP and your care home about vitamin supplements in order to ensure those living with dementia are getting enough of the right vitamins. From vitamin C to folic acid, it’s important to health and wellbeing that individuals are receiving the suitable recommended daily allowance of key vitamins.
Avante Care & Support
We at Avante Care & Support provide high-quality care facilities throughout Kent and selected boroughs of London. At each care home, you can be confident that your loved one will be receiving quality meals and all the nutrients they require during their stay. You can liaise with your nearest care home to discuss any specific dietary requirements, and learn more about the nutritional value of meals we provide to residents.
