Día de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is celebrated on 1st and 2nd of November. It is sometimes confused with Halloween because of the symbolic skulls but it is not related at all. It is said that on 1st November the children who have passed come back to visit and celebrate as angelitos (little angels) and on the following day, the Difuntos (adults) return to join the festivities. Family members prepare for several weeks in advance for the tradition…
Creating a dignified dining experience for dementia residents Supporting older people living with dementia with good nutrition is especially important as they may have a small appetite due to medications or impaired taste, smell, hearing or vision. In addition, residents living with dementia may struggle with handling cutlery or lack the concentration to stay seated long enough to finish their meal. With this in mind, we explore ways to boost nutrition and encourage independence and dignity through the dining experience. The…
Catering well to residents who have dementia can be tricky if they have a poor appetite and are quite active. Here are some ideas to help people with small appetites eat better. Offer small, nutritious meals more often across the day. Fortified drinks such as milkshakes, fresh fruit juices and smoothies can help to increase nutrient intake. ‘Always on’ nutritious and appealing snacks like fresh and dried fruits, baked goods or mini cakes in common areas can help residents who…
Spring! Such a beautiful time of year. Time to take advantage of early season zucchinis and asparagus and prepare a delicious, creamy vegetable risotto. Our Lemon Risotto with Asparagus and Zucchini combines sweet, water-rich green vegetables with a fresh citrus-y brightness to create a light and delicious Spring-time meal for residents. See all the fruits and vegetables in season right now. Made it? Snap a photo and hashtag it #soupeduprecipes. We love to see your creations on Instagram and Facebook! Method…
Aged care nutrition, menu management, training, food budgets and procurement practices were the focus of the Royal Commission hearing in Cairns. Three aged care chefs and celebrity chef Maggie Beer gave evidence, together with speech pathologists, dietitians and oral care specialists. The hearing highlighted both ends of the spectrum in aged care catering – from the challenges chefs face preparing meals for residents on budgets as low as $6.50 a day, to what you can achieve on $16 a day,…