Benefits of good Elderly Nutrition in Care Homes

Simple changes in diet make a big difference

Nutrition, hydration and gentle exercise can improve a whole host of ailments, reduce the costs of Care and sustain health for longer.

In addition, with this approach, the improvement in Long-Term Care residents’ health has a direct bearing on the reputation of the Care Home.

The Care Home enjoys positive media reports and reviews, greater job satisfaction and morale for staff and a happier working and living environment all round.

Nutrition in Care Homes

Including powerful nutrients in meals for Care Home residents means:

Residents enjoy stronger emotional and physical wellbeing and have more energy; it means they are easier to look after
Fewer GP call-outs needed and less need for certain drugs
Residents have fewer colds and infections
Less refined sugar means fewer dental problems
Care Needs are less intense and require less staff time

However… GPs generally have little, if any, training in nutrition. That’s why it’s important for care homes to consult a qualified nutritional therapist to develop a powerful programme for sustainable – and cost-effective – health.

Hydration in Care Homes

Elderly people in care homes generally drink very little water, and care teams often mistakenly assume that tea, coffee, soup, custard and sugary drinks have the same benefits as water.

When residents drink more (pure) water, the results are:

Healthier skin and less risk of pressure sores – and fewer sores to report
Greater mental wellbeing for residents, sharper mental clarity and less ‘brainfog’ – which makes care easier
Better sleep – residents are less tired during the day and are more able to help themselves
Better balance, fewer falls, greater mobility, stronger bones – better safety record for the Care Home and less staff time required
Better digestion and less need for laxatives
Better bladder health, better kidney function, greater toileting independence and fewer urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Clearer speech
Healthier blood, better muscle tone and less painful joints – which makes it easier to Care for someone
Healthier lungs
Fewer headaches
Fewer colds and other infections

Gentle exercise in Care Homes

When Care Home residents are encouraged to stay mobile, keep joints flexible and muscles stronger, the results are:

Better cardiovascular health and oxygen flow
Fewer falls, greater mobility and better overall safety
Less hoisting and mobility equipment in use, saving a lot of Care Home staff time
Greater independence for residents and fewer demands from relatives
Fewer pressures on staff time

Opportunities for care homes

Care Homes now have an excellent opportunity to take the lead in providing better Care through better nutrition. Read more.

Find out how this care home in Suffolk took the lead.

Nutritional therapists

Are you a nutritional therapist or other natural health practitioner with knowledge and experience of elderly health? Contact Us today to submit an article for our blog.