Introduction

I am passionate about eldercare and the need to better support older New Zealanders to stay in their own homes with quality at home care. I firmly believe that people who remain in their own homes have increased levels of independence, positivity, happiness and longevity.

This blog is for me to:

- Share some of our client's success stories with quality homecare

- Pass on some tips on ways to enable you (or your parents) to stay at home longer

- Express my views on ideas and policies involving the eldercare / aged care industry



Thursday, April 14, 2011

Are your elderly relatives eating well?

New research into the best ways of preventing malnutrition in the elderly has found that it is company at the dinner table that a person needs to thrive - not just the quick delivery of a  meal.  More at risk are those  living alone and it’s imperative that we address these issues, as the problem will certainly get worse with our ever increasing elderly population and many more choosing to live independently.

Meal preparation has always been in demand through MSHOMECARE.  We have carers who are able to prepare meals  with the  freshness and choice providing the ideal answer for someone who isn’t able to cook well or perhaps has no motivation to prepare meals.

We are very aware of the importance of company at mealtimes and providing that all important companionship to enjoy the meal. Carers are often sitting down to enjoy a cup of tea or meal with clients, knowing that the socialization is so important to an excellent quality of life. A great carer will often have fantastic communication skills –  being able to sit down and have a relaxed chat with someone is vital to keeping that person interested in life and living.

We are also helping clients living in rest homes and in hospital level care who are not able or willing to eat the meals provided.  With a carer on hand to assist them people are drinking and eating and their energy levels and health improves accordingly.  Carers are able to heat delicious soup, make toast, fresh scrambled eggs, cheese, crackers and pate etc, which often makes all the difference to a person’s day.