Holidays, birthdays, anniversaries, and other important life events often include a shared meal. In daily life, gathering at the dinner table has traditionally been the only time everyone is together in conversation. Food nourishes not only our bodies but our souls. The baby boomer generation was the first to take advantage of advances in transportation following WW II, opening themselves up to new regional and international cuisines. Now that this generation is entering their senior years, their lifestyle demands are changing the landscape of senior living overall, including the expectations for senior living dining and the culinary experience.
At Westminster Place, the premier choice for senior living in Longview, Texas, we understand that food is an essential part of life for its nutritional value and the socialization and connections found in the dining experience. Our team of culinary professionals creates fresh, made-to-order meals that are nutritious and delicious. Call us at 903.329.6520 for more information about our residential lifestyle services, including exceptional dining options.
The Importance of Senior Living Dining
Many seniors report that eating meals alone is often when they feel the most isolated and lonely. Therefore, the structure and quality of senior living dining are an integral part of the overall experience of a senior living community. At Westminster Place, our community dining options offer residents the opportunity to enjoy a full meal together, grab a light lunch, or sit and socialize over a cup of coffee.
Seniors require fewer calories than younger adults, and nutritional needs change with aging. All Westminster Place residents receive nutrition education and counseling to ensure their dietary needs and personal preferences are met. Our culinary team creates menus to combine the best of East Texas fare with comfort food favorites while keeping proper senior nutrition in mind. Residents can enjoy:
- Restaurant-quality dining
- Casual dining
- Seasonal menus
- Special occasion menus
- Vegetarian and vegan options
- Gluten-free options
- Brain- and heart-healthy options
When mealtimes are shared with others, the experience lasts longer, creating more substantial social and emotional connections with peers. Additionally, seniors who dine together tend to skip meals less and make healthier food choices.
The Impacts of Poor Nutrition on Seniors
Malnutrition occurs when you do not have the proper nutrients to function. Malnutrition is particularly harmful to seniors as it leaves them more vulnerable to health risks, including increased risk of falls, slower recovery times from illness and injury, and repeat hospitalizations. Health problems for seniors related to poor nutrition include, but are not limited to:
- Memory impairment
- Impaired muscle and joint function, which limits mobility
- Anemia, which causes dizziness and overall weakness
- Reduced cognitive functioning
- Decreased bone mass
- Significant weight loss or weight gain
- Suppressed immunity
Nutritional needs for older adults are influenced by factors, including changes in body composition, chronic health conditions, and medications. Nutrition counseling and education can address these factors and keep seniors on track with healthy eating habits.
Discover Exceptional Dining and More at Westminster Place
Westminster Place is a non-profit, faith-based senior living community. As the premier choice for senior living in Longview, Texas, we offer a full continuum of care, including:
- Independent living
- Assisted living
- Memory care
- Long-term care
- Respite care
We provide person-centered care designed to meet our residents’ unique needs. You will be treated with the care, respect, privacy, and dignity you deserve, no matter which level of care you need. In addition to our exceptional senior living dining and nutritional services, residents at Westminster Place enjoy:
- Luxury accommodations
- Educational programs
- Recreational programs
- Group outings
- On-site beauty parlor, barbershop, and spa
- On-site library
- Housekeeping and laundry services
Residents have the opportunity to provide their input by serving on welcoming, food, groundskeeping, and activities committees. In addition to our professional culinary team, our full-time staff includes our chaplain, life enrichment coordinator, and health & fitness professionals.
Looking for a Great Culinary Experience? Contact Westminster Place Today
At Westminster Place, we cater our senior lifestyle programs to meet your needs and wants. Our staff is dedicated to ensuring that you or your loved one lives as happily, independently, and healthily as possible. Our senior dining program is but one of the multiple benefits we have to offer. Call 903.329.6520 to learn why Westminster Place is the number one choice for senior living in Longview, Texas.