Eating Well: Food Choices At Assisted Living Facilities

By Rue Nichols


One of the big advantages to assisted living is the food. That might seem silly, but for most of us, mealtime is a highlight of the day. Not only do we enjoy a variety of cuisine, people also enjoy the social aspect of meal time.

There's nothing wrong with eating alone once in a while, but often seniors who live independently don't have much chance to enjoy meals with friends or family. For those who live in assisted living in San Diego, not only are you always guaranteed a meal with friends, you never have to clean up, shop for groceries or prep for meals. At most facilities, three meals each day and snacks are simply part of the monthly costs.

This doesn't mean that you can't eat alone now and then, of course, and most communities for assisted living in Escondido or San Diego include a kitchenette space. This probably will include a small refrigerator and perhaps a coffee pot, a toaster or a microwave as well as some cupboards for storing snacks.

Because food is so important to one's happiness, don't forget to take a good look at the food offerings at every facility you visit. Obviously, you need to be concerned with other services and amenities, but it's smart to eat a meal at the facility and also take a look at some sample menus. These days, some facilities for assisted living in San Diego County offer some amazing selections and even some special themed dinners and events.

When you visit various facilities, you probably will note that larger communities tend to have more diverse menu selections. With so many residents to please, they will offer multiple entrees, several salads and a soup or two with each meal as well as a selection of side dishes and desserts. At a smaller board and care home, the menu might not be nearly as diverse, but it is important to know that with just five or six residents, it's easier to find options that suit the tastes of this smaller group.

For those of you with a loved one who is currently living in assisted living in San Diego or about to move into a facility, it's important that you come to dinner or lunch at the facility from time to time. Bring the grandkids and enjoy a weekend lunch or come for dinner once or twice each month. Not only will your loved one enjoy the company, you will get to know the new friends he or she has made. Plus you will truly get a better picture of how well your loved one is doing. Be sure to also plan some dining excursions off site, maybe a family party or a meal at their favorite steakhouse or whatever they enjoy.




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