How can malnutrition be prevented or corrected in the nursing home?
• Monitoring monthly weight in all residents and weekly weights for those deemed to be at risk for malnutrition. • Performing an assessment that involves the disciplines of nursing, dietary, social services and recreation departments and developing an individualized care plan based on that assessment. • Vigilant attention to nutrition and water intake. • Catering to food preferences as much as possible • Sitting residents with suitable dining partners. • Providing enough time for a leisurely, relaxed meal. • Preparing foods of appropriate consistency, color, texture, temperature, and presentation. • Using herbs and spices to compensate for the loss of the taste of smell sensations and also to avoid using too much salt and sugar. • Avoiding packaging that is hard to open. • Making sure that seating is comfortable and at the proper height. • Correcting any underlying disease or condition, including mouth or hand problems that might interfere with eating or swallowing. • Feeding residents
