Proper Feeding TechniquesLong-term care residents should be encouraged to maintain their independence and feed themselves whenever possible. However, there are many reasons why a patient may require feeding assistance.  Physical problems (for example, being unable to hold a fork, tremors that prevent getting spoon to mouth, etc) or cognitive problems…

Alcoholism and NutritionAlcoholism is a complex problem that affects nearly 17.6 million adults in the United States. Heavy alcohol use has adverse affects on nutrition both because it displaces other, more nutritious foods in the diet and because chronic use impairs absorption and metabolism of many nutrients. Over many years…

Making Your Facility Feel Like ‘Home’

Food is an important part of our everyday lives. It’s not just about nutrition and hydration. Food is about psychological, ethnic, cultural and religious issues. Food is about socialization. Because of this, facilities that don’t have a good dining program, that…

Alternate Forms of Hydration in the Summer MonthsIn these hot summer months, the body is begging for liquids.  But instead of reaching for a glass of water, why not eat a slice of watermelon?   A suitable daily allowance for water in adults is 2.5 liters per day, or approximately 2.5…

Controlling Unintentional Weight Loss

The health and well-being of its residents is the major concern for any long-term care (LTC) facility. Unintentional weight loss (UWL)—along with poor nutritional status—is a threat to the resident’s quality of life and significantly increases the risk of death in nursing home…

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…

As the holidays approach we like to celebrate by entertaining friends and family, throwing parties, and preparing feasts. From the buffet table to the office party, food moves center stage throughout the holiday season. Food safety is the most important ingredient in preparing food for the holidays. Be sure to…

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…

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. …

A Calibrated Thermometer is an Essential Tool in Food Service


The regular and consistent use of a calibrated probe thermometer in any food service is an indispensable tool. It helps any food service protect their customers from foodborne illnesses which are a major health concern to…