Breaking bread together is one of the joys of life. Enjoying a meal not only nourishes our bodies but also strengthens our bonds, relationships, and overall happiness. Good food is essential to a good life, but when someone has Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, it can be difficult to create a dining experience that fulfills mind, body, and soul.
Individuals with dementia have a variety of physical and sensory difficulties that can cause dining to be a difficult and uncomfortable experience. People with dementia may have a hard time picking up utensils or successfully putting food in their mouths. This can lead to embarrassment, avoidance of mealtimes, or other issues.
A memory care assisted living community like Bridges® by EPOCH at Mashpee understands the unique challenges of individuals living with dementia, so mealtimes are designed to ensure dignity and enjoyment while ensuring that people are getting the proper nutrition for their physical needs.
Our community has been developed from the ground up to anticipate, meet, and exceed the needs of our residents and their families, and successful mealtimes are a large part of that. Our culinary team members, dietary aides, and trained restaurant helpers are all well-versed in dementia best practices so that they can not only provide food that intrigues and excites our residents, but also provide dignified support and assistance wherever necessary.
Creating a Comfortable Dining Environment
At Bridges® by EPOCH at Mashpee, mealtimes are an important part of each day because they provide nutrition, comfort, and connection. We start by making sure the dining room is bright and inviting so residents can see their meals and surroundings clearly. The space is kept free of clutter, which means removing extra furniture, rugs, and decorative items that might cause confusion or create a tripping hazard.
The dining area is arranged to meet the mobility needs of our residents. Dining chairs with wheels are available so that everyone can move in and out of their seats more easily. The atmosphere is calm and relaxing, with background noise such as television kept to a minimum so residents can focus on their food and the people around them.
Dementia-Friendly Dining Practices
Residents enjoy three meals each day, created with brain health principles in mind. Each person is offered two visual meal options to make it easier to choose something appealing. Meals are served in a family-style setting within each household, which encourages conversation and helps residents feel a sense of connection. Those who prefer a quieter experience can choose to sit in a more private area.
Our open kitchen adds warmth and familiarity to the space. We also understand that not everyone is ready to eat at the same time, so there are always snacks and alternative menu options available for residents who want to eat later in the day.
Supportive, Dignified Assistance
Caregivers and serving staff are present at every meal to offer help in a discreet and respectful way. This can include assisting with utensils, cutting food into smaller portions, or providing a friendly reminder to eat. The goal is always to make the experience comfortable and enjoyable.
Spills or crumbs are never a concern. Mealtimes are about enjoying food and company, and we want residents to feel relaxed. Clothing and linens can be washed, but the dignity of each resident is something we always protect.
Peace of Mind for Cape Cod Seniors and Their Families
Bridges® by EPOCH at Mashpee provides memory care assisted living that is comfortable, positive, safe and engaging. Exclusively dedicated to caring for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, our community creates a wellness-focused lifestyle that promotes dignity, respects individual preferences and makes a positive impact on the lives of our residents every day.
Dedicated Memory Care
Bridges® by EPOCH at Mashpee offers compassionate dementia care and unique programs that are tailored to meet the physical, cognitive and emotional needs of each resident – throughout every stage of disease progression. Residents can age in place comfortably and with dignity while families gain peace of mind.
At Bridges® by EPOCH at Mashpee, we also offer free educational sessions and caregiver support groups to help families navigate the challenges of dementia care. These gatherings provide valuable resources, expert advice, and a welcoming environment to share experiences with others who understand. Whether you’re seeking strategies for daily care or emotional encouragement, our events are here to guide and support you.
Supportive, Engaging Services
At Bridges® by EPOCH at Mashpee, we offer a program of care and services that celebrates life and supports individual strengths. Our compassionate and engaging approach adapts to the unique challenges and individuality of each resident. Our memory care professionals receive specialized and ongoing training designed to help residents maximize their independence in a secure, calm environment.
Bridges® by EPOCH is New England’s largest stand-alone memory care assisted living provider.
Contact us today to learn more or to schedule a tour.