Inappropriate Use of Therapeutic Diets in the Nursing Home

Guidelines for a Palliative Approach in Residential Aged Care: Enhanced Version--May 2006

“…Therefore, if residents are unable to eat or share a meal or drink with others the experience of meal times can be extremely unpleasant and can contribute to refusal to eat. Refusal to eat or drink can also occur when a resident does not like the food or fluid being offered (i.e., therapeutic diets often lack taste [178] ), needs assistance or extra time to eat, [179] or when the food or fluid is inappropriate to the resident's cultural background. [177] 6.4.1 Nutrition…”

“…low salt, low-cholesterol diets; see Glossary for definition). [178,192] The diets of residents should also be considered as potential causes for nutritional problems.…”

“…Studies have shown that weight loss, low albumin levels and postural changes (orthostatism) are associated with therapeutic diets [178] (Level QE) and therefore these diets should be avoided whenever possible for RACF residents. Low blood levels for a variety of vitamins have been found in many residents in RACFs [187] (Level EO).…”

“…examples include diabetic, low salt, low cholesterol, and renal diets. [178] volunteers volunteers are people who provide practical and emotional support for residents and their families. They undergo recruitment, orientation and training and may fulfil such roles as making personal visits to the resident, listening, providing companionship and a supportive presence, and general support.…”