Guest Blog by Clemence Muchingaguyo, Nutrition and Hydration Lead at Nightingale Hammerson…
The importance of nutrition and hydration should not be underestimated, but unfortunately we hear so many stories of people in care homes who are malnourished or deprived of food and drink.
Not only is nutrition and hydration vital to everyday life, but the process of getting people together at meal times is important for social and spiritual wellbeing, as well as allowing people in care homes to replicate past memories of family meal times or eating out in restaurants.
To celebrate nutrition and hydration week, we will focus on promoting nutrition and hydration but also raising awareness of dehydration and malnutrition and its prevention. Staff are making the week extra special for residents with lots of cooking, baking and tea parties.
Aside from promoting nutrition and hydration during the awareness week, Nightingale Hammerson also run several initiatives for residents. The Breakfast Club takes place every Friday, where residents can get involved in preparing and choosing their food, evoking memories of eating out in a café.
This is a healthy and fun alternative to normal breakfast routines, and means residents are picking and enjoying food and drink in a friendly and engaging atmosphere.
We also have ‘Meals Matter’, where staff are invited to join residents for lunch to improve the dining experience and encourage residents to eat well. Mealtimes are great for positive social interaction and communication, and eating together promotes companionship as well as ensuring residents are eating well.
Nightingale Hammerson is committed to providing food and drink choices daily that meet residents’ diverse needs.
