In June 2025, The Apsley was recognized for its customizable and robust senior living dining options by U.S. News & World Report. The article highlights how food and dining plays a critical role in aging and health. Dining and cuisine can often be a deciding factor for families choosing between senior living communities because it affects a senior’s nutrition, social life, and overall mood.
How Senior Living Communities Design a Dining Experience
To keep up with seniors’ unique preferences, tastes, dietary restrictions, and changing nutrition needs, many senior living communities individualize their dining programs and encourage shared meals to combat isolation. They also aim to cater meals to the unique needs of older adults, which may include reduced sugar, saturated fats, and sodium, according to MyPlate’s recommendations for older adults.
In independent living communities, seniors may have multiple dining options, including restaurant-style, café-style, buffet-style, and room service. However, in assisted living and memory care, residents may have increased care needs that require specialized diets. To promote healthy eating, many communities have nutritionists to inform meal plans and help ensure that residents meet their nutrition goals.
Additionally, in assisted living and memory care, any residents who need assistance eating may receive support from designated caregivers or dining staff.
The Apsley Offers a Unique Dining Experience
Known for its signature meals, local favorites, and exemplary service, the dining experience at The Apsley is exceptional. The diverse menu is curated by the community’s executive chef, Kfir Kertes, who has over 20 years of professional culinary experience. He has a deep understanding of the role of nutrition in senior health and strives to keep things fresh with exciting meals.
Kertes raved about the community’s offerings during his interview with U.S. News: “Our menus balance nutrition with bold, comforting flavors.” He provided examples of what the community’s residents enjoy on a daily basis:
- Breakfast: A spinach and goat cheese frittata with roasted sweet potatoes and a side of fresh berries—a meal is high in protein and antioxidants, which Kertes says supports energy and brain health for seniors.
- Lunch: Grilled salmon over quinoa and herb salad, with steamed asparagus and a lemon vinaigrette, which is light, satisfying, and filled with omega-3s and fiber.
- Dinner: Braised short ribs with parsnip purée and seasonal vegetables, a soft and easy-to-chew meal.
Kertes also discussed the community’s unique memory care menus: “In our memory care neighborhood, menus are tailored to support cognitive and physical well-being. This means often incorporating familiar favorites and nutrient-rich ingredients.”
How Sunrise Differentiates Its Dining Program
The Sunrise dining program features flavorful, hand-crafted dishes that meet each resident’s dietary preferences and nutritional needs. Our culinary team members use innovative tableside dining technology to help ensure that each dish is tailored to residents’ preferences, allergies, and more.
Residents often enjoy meals in the elegantly designed, restaurant-style dining rooms and can also grab a quick bite in the on-site bistro, which offers snacks and refreshments throughout the day.
If you want to learn more about how Sunrise provides fresh, seasonal cuisine that can accommodate a senior loved one’s dietary needs and preferences, find a Sunrise near you. Our team members are ready to answer any questions you may have and you’re always welcome to come in for a meal to experience the dining program for yourself.
References
[1] Austin, J. L. (2025, June 20). Senior living dining options. U.S. News & World Report.
[2] U.S. Department of Agriculture. (2025). Older adults. MyPlate.gov.