Dining when living with dementia
Our Claremont Court team is skilled at creating an enjoyable and tailored mealtime experience for our residents who live with dementia.
Creating a calming atmosphere is important, so we reduce distractions as much as possible. Team members eat with residents, providing gentle encouragement and support.
We also set up serving plates, where the different options for a meal are plated up and shown to residents, so they are able to see and smell the choices and choose which option appeals to them most. And, for those people who prefer not to sit at the dining table for long, we also offer food that can be enjoyed on the go – ensuring we tailor the dining experience to their preferences.
In order to support people to remain as independent as possible, we also have tableware which makes eating independently easier. From plates with coloured rims to provide contrast, so people can see where the plate finishes and the table begins, to adapted cutlery, glasses and cups, they are also designed to support independence and contentment during meals.
Homecooked meals to savour
At Claremont Court, we are passionate about providing a varied, nutritious and wonderfully appetising array of food for our residents which supports positive health and wellbeing.
Our dedicated and experienced team works closely with residents to capture people’s favourite foods which are then freshly prepared and mirror the seasons to ensure we are able to feature fresh fruit and vegetables when they are at their best.
Breakfast consists of a choice of cereals, fruit, porridge, toast and preserves. Weekend brunch includes full English breakfast with grilled bacon, sausages, eggs cooked to residents’ liking, baked beans and tomatoes.
Residents enjoy their main meal at lunchtime, starting with some fresh fruit juice or a light appetiser. There are at least two freshly cooked hot meal options, followed by a dessert. Menus are updated regularly to reflect the best of seasonal produce whilst giving plenty of choice and variety. Firm favourites include creamy lasagne and fresh vegetables, traditional fish and chips, and minted roast lamb with all the trimmings, followed by tempting sweets such as home-cooked fruit crumbles with vanilla custard, creamy cheesecakes, mouth-watering sponge puddings, refreshing sorbets and cheese and biscuits.
A lighter hot meal is served for supper. This includes a selection of freshly made sandwiches, jacket potatoes with a choice of fillings, heartwarming soup, and seasonal salads. For those with a sweet tooth we also always have a dessert option such a delicious homemade cake, yoghurt, and fresh fruit.
During all meals, we ensure we meet the needs of our residents who have special dietary requirements or cultural preferences – ensuring everyone has appetising, balanced meals which they are able to enjoy and savour.
And, throughout the day we have a selection of hot and cold drinks and biscuits as well as snacks and freshly home baked cakes to enjoy for afternoon tea whilst beer and wine is on offer during lunch and dinner.
