DINING
offer personalised nutrition plans for all residents, with almost nine in ten (88 per cent) reporting difficulty in ensuring residents receive the correct nutrition – a notable increase compared to 2023. This indicates an increased risk to quality and safety and highlights the ongoing strain on the sector, limiting providers’ capacity to individualise catering at scale.
Practical steps for a better dining experience Excellence in the dining experience comes from more than what’s served on the plate. While many aspects of the dining environment are regularly considered – all providers surveyed said they attempt to minimise distractions during mealtimes, including loud noises and medical rounds to allow residents to focus on their food and social interactions – more emphasis should be placed on the practical measures that ensure resident wellbeing.
Small changes to the dining environment can help make mealtimes more comfortable and accessible for residents. This could include providing contrasting plates and crockery to help make food look more appealing and easier to see, alongside adapted cups and cutlery that are easier to hold. Similarly, reducing noise, interruptions and other distractions can help prevent residents from feeling overwhelmed. When it comes to the physical dining
environment, thoughtful and subtle use of colour can help residents navigate the room while reducing confusion. For example, neutral decor
James Leigh
James is general manager at apetito. He joined in 2012 and has since worked in several senior roles within its Care Homes division and Wiltshire Farm Foods business. Having spent many years working with care providers to improve the quality of food they’re serving and the dining experience they’re offering, James has extensive experience across all areas of care catering.
paired with a feature wall can support residents who experience difficulties with colour perception. Carefully considered artwork featuring calming imagery can also introduce subtle colour to the space without becoming overstimulating. Natural lighting can be particularly beneficial for
residents with dementia who may have disturbed sleeping patterns. Exposure to natural light can help to regulate the body’s circadian rhythm, which can support sleep, wellbeing and mood. With a few simple adjustments, care teams can
create calmer, more person-centred mealtimes that can improve eating and drinking while supporting overall wellbeing.
Actionable takeaways Mealtimes are increasingly being recognised as a fundamental part of high-quality, person-centred care, with expectations continuing to evolve as resident needs become more complex. By investing in staff training, regularly reviewing dining environments, and giving teams more time to focus on the dining experience, providers can make a meaningful difference to resident mealtimes. Ultimately, it’s not simply about food, but the importance of supporting residents’ choice, enjoyment, and dignity while dining.
To download the full report, please visit:
https://apetito.link/nl2026
34 THE CARE HOME INDUSTRY HANDBOOK 2027
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