Caterers slam critical survey on elderly diets
Social services caterers have expressed surprise that a Government nutrition survey found over-65-year-olds in residential homes had a poorer diet than their "free-living" counterparts - and frustration that it offered no reasons for the gap.
Half of those in nursing homes had reduced levels of minerals and vitamins, with more than one-third low in vitamin D, according to the survey by the Ministry of Agriculture and Department of Health. But, despite eating too much fat and too little fibre, older people in general enjoyed a healthier diet than 25 years ago.
Roger Denton, national chairman for the Advisory Body for Social Services Catering (ABSSC), felt the report threw little light on problems such as loss of appetite owing to a partners' death, a move, or the onset of Alzheimer's disease.
Denton claimed that most residential homes - except those that are purely budget-driven - offered healthy menus, catering for a variety of special needs and using fewer convenience foods than old people at home. He added that many residential homes tackled vitamin D deficiency by serving oily fish and pointed out that it was also caused by lack of sunlight.
The Department of Health conceded that those in care tended to suffer from poorer mobility, health, and dental condition, which would affect their ability and desire to eat.
- The ABSSC last week delivered roast (British) beef and treacle tart to Tony and Cherie Blair and House of Commons speaker Betty Boothroyd to mark the third National Meals on Wheels Day. by Angela Frewin