Nutrition plays a key role in overall health and well-being. A healthy diet keeps the immune system strong which aids in warding off viruses and disease. By contrast, a poor diet can contribute to falls and put you at higher risk for obesity, osteoporosis, diabetes, and more. It’s important that seniors know how nutritional needs change with aging.
As we grow older, the body processes vitamins and minerals differently than when we were younger, and metabolism slows. Hydration becomes increasingly important. This podcast featuring senior nutrition experts Tim Whelan, VP of Dining, and Caitlin Rogers, National Director of Dining and Nutrition Services, can help you learn more.
The Dining Experience at Sunrise
At Sunrise, our approach to dining is designed to accommodate age-related changes. We use the freshest of seasonal ingredients to design meals that are delicious and nutritious. Our dining services team works hard to create an experience that is warm and inviting.
Sunrise is proud to have been highlighted in a recent issue of Food Service Director magazine. Special thanks to our Dining Services teams for their dedication to our residents!
While COVID-19 has forced us to make adjustments in what mealtimes look like, including transitioning to in-room dining, we haven’t given up on our commitment to making meals enjoyable. Whether it’s creating a special menu for a resident’s birthday or writing supportive messages on resident meal containers, dining is still in a class of its own at Sunrise communities.
As the COVID-19 pandemic evolves, we are adjusting our operations based on the advice of experts, and adheres to federal, state, and local requirements. At the same time, the plan is mindful of residents’ symptoms and active cases of the coronavirus. This approach helps us keep residents and team members safe, while also giving families peace of mind.
The Taste of Fall at Sunrise
As summer turns to fall, our menus are changing too. Sunrise chefs utilize local produce that is in season, such as hearty greens, apples, butternut squash, cabbage, beets, pears, and parsnips.
Here are a few seasonal meals that residents are beginning to enjoy:
- Roasted chicken served with maple brussels sprouts and wild rice and cranberry salad
- Maple glazed ham with scalloped potatoes and fresh asparagus on the side
- Lamb and vegetable stew atop creamy mashed potatoes
- Slow braised chicken thighs with parmesan bread pudding and roasted root vegetables
Fall desserts are also a must:
- Apple crumb pie
- Pear crumble nut cake
- Butter pecan cake
- Chocolate eclair torte
These are some perennial favorites that are always on our menu:
- Roast turkey and gravy served with cornbread stuffing, green bean casserole, and cranberry sauce
- Braised beef brisket enjoyed with potato pancakes and sautéed garlic spinach
- Shrimp scampi over angel hair pasta with broccoli spears
- Honey-barbeque grilled chicken with macaroni and cheese and grilled vegetables on the side
Nutrition and Recipes
If you are interested in learning more about nutrition and healthy aging, we encourage you to visit our nutrition and recipes resources. You’ll find a variety of articles and resources designed to keep you updated on the latest research on the role nutrition plays in living a longer, healthier life. You can also learn more about Sunrise's signature dining program.