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Partnerships & Medicare Education
Nutrition and Hydration Care
What Family Members and Volunteers Can Do To Support Proper Nutrition and Hydration Care
Family Members
You know your loved one better than any one else. Tell the staff what your family member likes to eat and drink. Discuss strategies for helping them get the nourishment and the fluids they need.
Visit during meal times to encourage your loved one to eat and drink. Many residents will make a much greater effort when in the company of their family. They will also have a better appetite when you are around.
Volunteers
Request training to help with resident feedings, if allowed.
Once you have been trained, become familiar with residents' special needs, food interests, and abilities.
Volunteer to assist the activity director with parties, celebrations, and other special activities where refreshments and liquids could be served.
All Visitors
Make sure there is always a water pitcher within a resident's reach, along with cups/glasses and straws.
Keep a resident's water pitcher filled, but not so heavy that it can't be easily lifted and poured.
Each time you pass a water fountain when walking with a resident, encourage him or her to have a drink.
If a resident doesn't like water, offer decaffeinated tea or other liquids.
Encourage residents to eat foods high in water content-such as soups, pudding, and ice cream.
Many residents will suck on ice chips even if they have little interest in eating or drinking. Make sure a resident is allowed to have ice chips (because this will be dangerous for a person who has trouble swallowing) and then offer them frequently.
When residents request caffeinated drinks like soda and coffee, encourage them to have milk, decaffeinated tea, or juice instead. Remember, caffeinated drinks do not count as much toward fluid intake!
Alert staff and visitors if a resident has begun eating or drinking more than usual. He or she will need to visit the bathroom more often!
Encourage every resident to be independent, to whatever extent is appropriate for them. Try to find the right balance between giving necessary help and encouragement, and letting a person do things for themselves.
Encourage residents to sit in the sunshine for 20-30 minutes every day. Sunshine is a great source of vitamin D, which is important for the absorption of calcium. People who do not get enough vitamin D and calcium are at higher risk for bone loss and fractures.
