Seniors who live on their own face the hassle of making three balanced meals every day for themselves. They may not be able to meet basic nutritional requirements or encounter challenges in getting out to obtain necessary grocery items during these times of isolation. Eating well, featured in this article, is Reason #5 of of our Five Reasons to Join Senior Living Blog Series.

According to a recent study conducted by Feed America, an estimated 5.5 million older Americans lacked consistent access to basic nutrition needed to sustain an active, healthy lifestyle.  For seniors, living on one’s own can be difficult to plan balanced diets, shop, prepare ingredients, and cook for themselves. When choosing to live in a senior living community, residents enjoy delicious, nutritious meals three times a day in a lively restaurant.

How do residents in senior living communities eat well?

Chef-prepared meals
Presented by the Executive Chef and culinary team, residents enjoy delectable meals three times a day. Our culinary team members go to great lengths to offer exceptional dining options that will please the palates of all residents ranging from classic offerings to comfort food to international fare. Chefs and even award-winning chefs in select communities, prepare tempting, nutritious meals for residents in restaurant-style dining or elegant private dining rooms for special celebrations. We focus on serving fresh selections such as fresh fish, freshly brewed coffee, fresh-baked goods, freshly cracked eggs, and more. Not only do our menus offer an array of choices, but they are also available all day to satisfy residents’ desires for variety and flexibility. In addition to daily offerings, an everyday menu is available with classic items as well. 

Tailored to residents
Nutrition is important for seniors in maintaining their health. Our chefs create monthly meal plans that are balanced and take into account resident preferences, nutrition, food textures, allergies, and physician-ordered diets. All meals are planned to meet the specific nutritional needs of residents.

Meridian’s Snacks that Pack program is specifically developed for seniors with Alzheimer’s or other dementias. This program, offered in Memory Care communities, provides residents with nutrient-dense, antioxidant-rich snacks three times a day with a specialized hydration program.

Special Events
Memorable moments are made when culinary delights are paired with celebrations to support residents’ nutritional and psychosocial needs. Our chefs enjoy hosting special events with menus tailored to seasonal celebrations such as international nights, special luncheons, or holiday social gatherings. Daily happy hours are intended to draw residents together to socialize over a glass of wine, spirit, cocktail, beer, or a cup of hot tea or coffee.