Country Range produces ‘Catering for Dementia’ guide

Country Range has published its latest guide to Catering for Dementia.

Aimed at caterers looking after residents who are living with dementia, the guide was produced in collaboration with International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI) consultant Andy Cullum.

The guide, which was also checked by Alison Smith, a prescribing support dietician for the NHS and fellow of the BDA who worked on the Care Home Digest, provides advice and menu solutions on cutlery-free dining options that are nutritious and practical whilst still being delicious and visually appealing.

With The Alzheimer’s Society estimating that around 70% of care home residents have dementia or severe memory problems, the new guide provides creative solutions to help residents with eating and drinking difficulties and ensures menu inclusivity, nourishment, stimulation and satisfaction.

Dementia can lead to changes in food and fluid intake so it’s vital caterers and carers have guidance and menu ideas to make food more accessible. The Country Range ‘Catering for Dementia’ guide is free to all chefs and caterers and includes recipe ideas for starters, main courses, desserts and snacks.

Rachel Porter, Country Range Group marketing manager, said: “We’re always looking to provide our members and their customers in the health and welfare sector with the latest knowledge, advice and tools to help them offer the best mealtime experience, nutrition and care.

“This latest guide follows the success of our Country Range guide to the IDDSI Framework which was released last year and offers innovative menu ideas and recipes to make food more accessible for people living with dementia.”