Food is more than just sustenance in our lives. It’s a source of joy, a medium for expression, and a foundation for community and independence. This is especially true for service users in residential homes. From garden to table, food is pivotal in nurturing a sense of autonomy and belonging. But how exactly does involvement […]
Food is more than just sustenance in our lives. It’s a source of joy, a medium for expression, and a foundation for community and independence. This is especially true for service users in residential homes.
From garden to table, food is pivotal in nurturing a sense of autonomy and belonging. But how exactly does involvement in food help maintain independence for your loved ones?
Creating weekly and daily menus is an exercise in choice and decision-making. It’s about expressing preferences, discussing nutritional needs, and sometimes, reminiscing about favourite meals from the past. This process does more than just outline meals; it fosters a sense of control and participation in your loved one’s life.
When people contribute to meal planning, they do more than just select dishes. We engage residents in a thoughtful process that considers health, variety, and personal taste. It is empowering to know that their voice counts and that they can influence your diet and contribute to the communal dining experience. This helps maintain independence, reinforcing the idea that everyone has a role regardless of age or abilities.
There’s something inherently satisfying about growing your own food. This satisfaction is twofold for your loved ones in residential homes. Gardening is a form of therapy, a physical exercise, and a way to connect with nature.
At Westwood, we offer access to a vegetable plot. When service users get involved in gardening, it instils a sense of responsibility and accomplishment.
The fruits (and vegetables!) of their labour don’t just end up in their meals; they become a tangible representation of their effort and a topic of conversation among peers and staff. The connection between the work done in the garden and the food served at the table strengthens the understanding and appreciation of food, encouraging healthier eating habits and a deeper respect for nature.
Behind every menu and garden plot, there’s a team of dedicated staff members who understand the importance of food and nutrition in maintaining independence. Through comprehensive training, our staff are equipped with the knowledge of dietary needs and the skills to facilitate your loved one’s involvement in food-related activities.
This training ensures that mealtime and gardening adhere to nutritional guidelines and create an environment where service users feel valued and heard. Our staff’s understanding and support are crucial in making food an avenue for maintaining independence.
Involvement in food-related activities is about making choices and seeing those choices come to life, whether on a plate or in a garden plot. This involvement goes beyond the physical aspects of food; it’s a recipe for maintaining independence, a reminder that every person has a valuable contribution.
At Westwood Care Group, service users are actively involved in deciding and participating in preparing weekly menus and daily meals, just as they would be in any family environment. We also have a vegetable plot so our residents can engage in gardening activities.
We pride ourselves on providing exceptional and compassionate care. We offer Residential care that is person-centred and tailored to your loved one’s needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you and your family members.
If you want to begin a career in care, where you will receive exceptional training, look at our job vacancies.
