-
January 2010
We don’t work in a facility, we work in their home. Phrases like “culture change” and “resident centered living” have been popping up in meetings, newsletter, and research regarding how we manage long term care facilities. What do all of these words mean and why all of this change now? …
Read more...
-
July 2008
Restorative Dining Programs can Improve Outcomes, Promote Well-being, Reduce Risk, and Boost Payment
All people involved in the caregiving process must be focused on the purpose of caregiving in the broadest sense to help the resident be as comfortable and functional for as long as possible. Restorative programs…
Read more...
-
December 2009
The holidays can be a time of excitement for all of us when we are surrounded by family and friends. Along with great company, the holidays are synonymous with our favorite foods. Below are some tips to avoid increasing your waistline while still enjoying all of your favorite foods!Stay hydrated:…
Read more...
-
September 2008
Prepare for the Baby Boomer Generation!
A new group of health care consumers has begun to utilize the services of long term care. These are the Baby Boomers who total approximately 78 million, born between 1946 and 1964. These men and women, some of whom have reached…
Read more...
-
September 2009
Accurate Weight Measurements - a MUST HAVE for LTC!Accuracy of weight measurements is essential to the nutrition assessment of a resident in long-term care and sets the stage for nutrition intervention. Weight measurement is used to calculate energy, protein and fluid needs; used as an indicator of nutritional and health…
Read more...
-
June 2009
Diabetes Teaching GuidelinesApproximately 6.5 million Americans have been diagnosed with diabetes and it is estimated that 50% of all persons in the United States who have diabetes are undiagnosed. Diabetes is the fourth killer in the United States, usually related to coronary heart disease or stroke. It is the chief…
Read more...
-
September 2009
Identifying the Need for Feeding AssistanceResidents in long-term care are encouraged to maintain their independence and feed themselves whenever possible. There are, however, many reasons why a resident may require feeding assistance. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, from physical problems such as being unable to hold the fork,…
Read more...
-
June 2009
Liberalized Renal Diets in Long-Term Care FacilitiesThe American Dietetic Association recommends that long-term care facilities liberalize therapeutic diets to maximize meal intake of residents who are at nutritional risk. In many cases a regular diet improves meal intake, minimizes struggles over dietary compliance, and improves a patient’s quality of life. …
Read more...
-
April 2009
HydrationNext to oxygen, water is the nutrient most needed for life. A person can live without food for a month, but most people can survive only three or four days without water. Water helps you to maintain body temperature, metabolize body fat, aids in digestion, lubricates and cushions organs, transports…
Read more...
-
July 2008
Providing a 'Good Meal' Means More Than Filling a Residents Stomach or Maintaining Weight
Introduction
Nursing home residents have many special needs, perhaps none more important than nutrition. A person's appearance, mood, resistance to illness and self-esteem can be improved through good general nutrition, the lack of…
Read more...