Making food a highlight of senior living

​In senior living facilities, food has become a competitive differentiator. A 2021 survey by the food technology company Nutrislice found that among people planning to move to senior living communities within the next two years, 87 percent said onsite food was not only “somewhat” or “very” important to them, but also that it played a key role in their decision about where to live. At the same time – and perhaps because food is so important to residents of these facilities – chefs face a variety of challenges when preparing food for seniors. As people age, they may experience a diminished sense of smell and taste. They often have more limitations around fat, sodium and sugar intake. Certain medications and medical conditions ranging from Coronavirus to cancer can also make food taste a bit “off.” To serve food that meets seniors’ dietary needs and personal preferences, senior living facilities are making healthier snack options more readily available, placing nutritious offerings in convenient locations, preparing more plant-based options and healthier comfort foods, employing methods such as sous vide to preserve the flavor and quality of dishes, and embracing service models that make it possible for people to order personalized meals at the times of day they crave them. Facilities are also building up the experience they offer around food, providing more cooking classes and nutritional workshops that demonstrate how healthier eating can be appealing, pop-up experiences featuring global cuisine, and farm-to-table meals sourced by local producers. Looking for ideas? The website A Place for Mom recognizes senior living facilities in North America that have accumulated the highest number of reviews and positive ratings for meals and dining.

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