Nutrition is vitally important for all age groups but is especially a concern for the elderly population. Proper menu planning is critical for providing the essential nutrients that a resident so desperately needs. Older adults are more likely than younger adults to suffer from, and be concerned about, hypertension, diabetes, obesity and osteoporosis. In July 2003, there were 35.9 million people over the age of 65 in the United States. This accounted for 12 percent of the total population. In 2030, the US Census Bureau projects the older population to be twice as large as in 2000, growing from 35 million to 72 million and representing nearly 20 percent of the total US population.

Medications or health problems may also affect taste and smell. Some medications leave a bitter flavor, which will affect the taste of the food. Some may cause nausea, resulting in a loss of appetite. Health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer, and liver disease may alter taste and smell.

As you can see there are many ways we can help to improve the taste and appeal of meal service to the residents. Always keep in mind to try various ways to help improve the resident’s appetite. In the long run this will help their overall nutritional health and make meal time a more pleasant experience.