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Nutrition in Older People

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Submitted By watvica
Words 918
Pages 4
The right menu:
For me doing the Menus should not be classed as a chore but part of the patients care that should be carried out with time and understanding.
The right choice of food:
Patients are giving choices of food to suits their needs and preferences. Religion, allergies and special dietary needs relating to illness or condition should be considered.
Provide assistance:
For patients who have got difficulty eating and drinking and I make sure they not rushed with their meals. I also believe that families and carers should be encouraged to visit and offer support at mealtimes.
Red trays:
This is to identify people at risk for malnutrition, the right assistance is provided and food and fluids chart are completed.
MUST screening:
Responsible for weighing and completing MUST chart and action plan accordingly.
Documentation:
I ensure that all the information is recorded as per the trust guidance to facilitate communication between health professionals. If it is not written it did not happen
Handover:
To ensure continuity and the right action is taken. For example: dietician referrals.

The importance of nutrition in older adult:
As an older person continue to age, nutritional habits become important and vital to their overall health. Ageing is frequently associated with decrease in taste and smell, poor dental health and decrease in physical activities which all affect nutrient intake.
Nutrition as Benchmark:
The essence of care (2010) Benchmark for food and drink states that practitioners should encourage patients to eat and drink in accordance to their needs and preferences. People who are screened on initial contact and identified at risk receive a full nutritional assessment. Patient’s care is planned, implemented, continuously evaluated and revised to meet individual needs and preferences for food and drink.
Nutrition and dignity:

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