February 9, 2024
When it comes to senior living, there are a few factors to consider always. One of the main considerations should be food and the overall dining experience. With that comes the delicate balance of culinary creativity and nutritional precision, the nuanced dance that unfolds within our dining rooms. At The Kentridge Senior Living, we prioritize the vitality, happiness, and longevity of those we serve. Join us where the aroma of carefully prepared dishes mingles with the laughter of shared stories as we explore the significance of nutrition while unveiling some of the secrets behind our thoughtfully curated menus.
I always exercise caution with the amount of salt I use in my dishes. I’ve discovered that flavor can be enhanced by using herbs and cooking down fresh vegetables to bring out their full flavor, rather than relying on salt. Look, smell, and taste are things I always keep in mind when cooking for my residents. I also think about portion size.
If a health-conscious resident were to ask me for an entrée suggestion, I would recommend seared herb chicken with a lemon reduction, served alongside sweet potato mash and any fresh vegetable of their choice. This is good protein and a great healthy source of carbs.
Some items I want to include on my menu that focus on nutrition are alternate options for healthier carbs:
For residents needing to gain weight, I suggest they start on a high protein, high carb diet, protein and rice or potatoes to help gain some healthy weight.
As someone who was misdiagnosed with diabetes and currently has above-normal high blood pressure, I always prioritize my nutrition when dining out. My one guilty pleasure meal is pizza and wings and a good, cold IPA beer. Healthy snacking is essential as well. A healthy snack option is pretzels or apple cinnamon rice cakes with peanut butter.
What we’ve uncovered is more than a celebration of diverse flavors and textures. It’s a testament to the commitment to prioritize the nutritional well-being of our residents. The kitchen remains the heart of our senior living experiences, and we hope the flavors shared resonate and linger in your thoughts. The creative spark in our kitchen isn’t just about pushing culinary boundaries. It’s about crafting delicious meals and a source of nourishment for our residents. I hope this inspires continued conversations about the importance of nutrition, creativity in culinary arts, and the everlasting impact they have on the lives of our older adults.
The KentRidge Senior Living in Kent, OH offers independent senior apartments, assisted living, and memory care with a variety of services and a range of floor plan options. Amenities include restaurant dining, 24-hour bistro, concierge service, housekeeping, events and entertainment, personal care, transportation services, and more. Centrally located near University Hospital Portage Medical Center with convenient access to major shopping centers and attractions, including Sunny Hill Golf & Recreation Inc, Stow-Kent Shopping Center, Kent State Univeristy Museum, The Portage Hike & Bike Trail, and Mad Cap Brewing Company.
