Organizational Issues Related to Satisfaction with Food and Food Service in the Nursing Home from the Resident's Perspective

Abstract

This paper reviews organizational factors that potentially affect food quality and food service in the nursing home. A model is proposed for assessing the influence of organizational technology on resident satisfaction with food and food service from the resident's perspective. Findings from an exploratory phenomenological case study applying the model are presented. Staff knowledge of how to prepare and serve food properly, and staff availability to serve food on time, were key constructs. Resident-staff interactions appeared to moderate resident control over food and food service. Recommendations are suggested for improved communication between residents and staff to address certain limitations and enhance empowerment of residents.

Mealtimes in Nursing Homes: Striving for Person-Centered Care

“…Chang and Roberts (31) also reported that of the 31 nursing assistants they interviewed and observed during meals in a Taiwanese nursing home, 93% felt there wasn't enough staff and they lacked the knowledge needed to feed residents well. Further, a study focusing on residents' perspectives found that residents felt there were inadequate staff numbers to cook food properly, assist them during meals, monitor their intake, and return them to their rooms after eating (32).…”

Mealtime care on a geriatric- psychiatric ward from the perspective of the caregivers: a qualitative case study design

“…Older persons prefer a traditional diet (Crogan et al, 2004;Shultz et al, 2005;Wikby & Fägerskiöld, 2004). Dissatisfaction appears when the meal differs from what they were used to eating at home.…”

“…If the food tastes good, is carefully prepared and fulfils expectations, then the residents will enjoy it. Appetite increases when the residents can maintain their familiar eating habits (Shultz et al, 2005;Wikby & Fägerskiöld, 2004).…”

“…The possibility of ordering an alternative is considered a right. This can enhance the quality of life (Crogan et al, 2004;Shultz et al, 2005). Older persons often do not communicate their preferences, and this is why nurses are not always aware of all complaints (Pearson et al, 2003;Sidenvall et al, 1996).…”

“…Eating problems have become normal and assisting residents has become a routine task. In contrast, residents prefer a personal approach (Pearson et al, 2003;Ruigrok & Sheridan, 2006;Sidenvall et al, 1994), which would promote resident satisfaction and feelings of empowerment (Crogan et al, 2004;Shultz et al, 2005). Nevertheless, the staff is very willing to solve residents' problems (Pearson et al, 2003).…”