While dining in long-term care facilities has a reputation as being bland and boring, not in our senior citizen community in Frederick, Md. or any of our campuses for that matter! We understand that beyond sustaining us nutritionally, food plays an integral role in the quality of our lives. It engages our senses – taste, smell, sight, touch and even hearing (think of the crunch of an apple!) It can give us pleasure and joy. It encourages social interaction and cultural sharing, bringing people together and sparking conversation. That’s why we’re committed to making dining special, every day.
Improving nutrition and quality of life
Our campuses integrate health, wellness and helpful living practices into our dining operations. Our house menu, known as our Healthy House diet, has been designed to be delicious and healthy. Moderation is key to our approach. With fewer fried foods, more scratch prepared items from our professional Culinary team, and lots of healthy choices, our residents enjoy the many options available.
The Healthy House diet aims to provide an average of 2100-2600 calories, 98 – 105 grams of protein and 5 grams of sodium per day. The menu incorporates baked, broiled or grilled meats, lower fat dairy products, fresh fruits and vegetables and healthier dessert options. For a sample menu, click here. Reviewed by our licensed, registered dietitian, the Healthy House diet follows the American Dietetic Association (ADA) position that a liberalized diet can improve quality of life and nutritional status for seniors in long-term care.
A texture modified diet addresses dysphagia
Country Meadows helps residents maintain their independence and dignity while dining. Residents that have difficulty swallowing, also known as dysphagia, may need texture modifications to their diet. These may include changing the viscosity of liquids and/or softening, chopping, or pureeing solid foods. Other residents may have difficulty grasping silverware. For our residents who need additional dining support, we offer a Finger Food and Texture Modified Diet menu daily. A few delicious sample options include sliced waffles, chilled peach soup, cut up parmesan crusted tilapia, roasted potato wedges, and a blueberry cheesecake bar.
A blue plate special
A blue plate special is a term for a quick and inexpensive meal at a diner. But at our campuses like Country Meadows in Frederick, Md., we use blue plates to help our memory loss residents increase their appetite and boost nutrition. Studies have shown that the colored plates help people with memory loss identify the food on their plate and focus on the meal. The plates provide visual stimulation while reducing distractions. They also help signal a familiar routine which can be comforting.
Celebrating the big, and small, moments in life
Food is an important part of celebrations. That’s why we offer themed dining events throughout the year at our senior citizen community in Frederick, Md. Our Culinary team creates special menu items to complement activities and entertainment.
Residents celebrating their own personal moments – a birthday, anniversary or just Tuesday – may choose to splurge on the Elegant Entrees menu to treat themselves to lobster tail, filet mignon, veal or scallops, and, of course, a delicious dessert.
Why choose our senior citizen community in Frederick, Md.
Dining is just one of the considerations families have when considering senior care. No matter whether you or a loved one are beginning the journey or are ready to transition to retirement community living now, our committed and compassionate team can help you evaluate your options.
On our beautiful campus overlooking the Monocacy River, Country Meadows of Frederick, Md., offers a full range of senior living services, including Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Support Services and Restorative Services.
Schedule a personalized visit today to see why U.S. News & World Report rated Country Meadows of Frederick, Md. as a Best Senior Living community for assisted living, independent living, and memory care in 2024. Be sure to have a taste of all we have to offer!