Dining with others is intricately connected to memories of meals shared with family and friends. That’s why a growing number of senior living communities are examining how and where their residents eat.

In her “Enjoyable Dining” article for Leading Age magazine, Debra Wood, R.N., reinforces the importance of mealtime: “People cherish their right to enjoy food and have it their way, and evidence is mounting that the meaning of a meal does not change with age or infirmity.”

The author presents examples of how “family style dining” is being employed at a growing number of senior living communities. This style of dining normally includes one or more of the following:

• Residents dining together rather than alone in their room
• A selection of food items, which allows each resident to choose their meal
• Residents seated in small groups, making it easier to initiate a conversation or to contribute to one
• Meals passed around the table in serving bowls rather than served on trays
• Home-like décor, including tablecloths, condiments on each table and meals served on colorful/patterned plates

These elements create an atmosphere that is pleasant and comforting. “Eating and dining are tied to who we are,” says Robin Remsburg, professor and director of the George Mason University School of Nursing in Fairfax, Va. “It’s about good times, family celebrations. Food is involved in almost everything we do in our society.”

Meals can also be a positive social occasion for a senior who remains in their home, provided they are physically able to host the event and that friends and family are able to visit on a regular basis. But if these factors do not align to provide a regular social opportunity, the individual is at risk of becoming isolated. This may lead to depression and malnourishment due to a lack of interest in eating alone.

A senior community like Meth-Wick offers its residents easy access to a positive dining experience with others. Whether residents are sharing meals in the on-campus restaurant or taking part in bus trips to local restaurants, community living offers healthy dining options. Bon appetit!