January 2011 [31.01.2011]

Nutrition Australia Victorian Division: Ageing with Dignity
Grant: $50,583

This project resulted in the production of the Healthy Food Guidelines: For Supported Residential Services ‘above-pension’ which has been distributed to all 182 SRSs in Victoria. SRSs are privately owned businesses providing accommodation and personal care for the frail aged and disabled who can no longer live independently at home. Although they cater for a range of age groups, the average age of those living in ‘above-pension’ facilities is 83.

The guidelines provide balanced and nutritious menu planning and include 22 recipes (designed to serve up to 35 people) that are age- and culturally-specific and will improve the health and wellbeing for residents in their care. Research has shown that many chronic conditions and wound management issues of the elderly are diet related. The Guidelines were developed in conjunction with SRS facilities, and Dairy Australia designed and tested eight of the recipes.

For more information please go to Nutrition Australia’s website