Increased food standards for aged care

The government has committed $12.9 million to better food and nutrition in aged care. This initiative has been backed by Dietitians Australia and the Minister for Aged Care, the Hon Anika Wells MP.

This announcement marks the start of a significant government-led engagement of accredited practising dieticians in aged care in Australia.

“As a profession, we’ve been advocating for better food and nutrition in aged care since well before the Royal Commission,” said Tara Diversi, Dieticians Australia President.

Dieticians Australia has welcomed the establishment of a Food, Nutrition and Dining Advisory Support Unit within the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission.

The funding will provide a dedicated food and nutrition hotline as well as menu and mealtime quality assessment projects. It will also introduce dietary guidelines for older Australians.

This support unit will also help providers build capability by linking them with support and education programs, including those delivered by accredited practising dietitians.

It will:

• triage food hotline calls based on the nature and level of risk to older people
• coordinate up to 720 provider spot checks annually, with 10% of spot checks of the highest risk services to have accompanying dietitians
• support providers to build capability by linking them with education programs
• engage Dementia Australia experts to promote nutrition and food enjoyment for people with dementia.

“Better nutrition in aged care is a health investment that ultimately reduces the risk of malnutrition, dehydration, falls, pressure injuries, wounds and hospitalisations for residents in care,” Diversi said.

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