While the fight against COVID-19 advances, we continue to rely on the dedicated employees who work in hospitals, emergency services and healthcare sectors.
We reached out to Jo Cleary who works in hospitality in the aged care sector. Jo is the CEO of Dining Experience Specialists, a hospitality business that supports aged care providers to enhance residents’ dining experience. She is passionate about providing balanced, healthy meals and great dining experiences to residents in aged care homes. She conveys the importance of high-quality food and how unhealthy diets can lead to malnutrition, illness, injury, reduced quality of life and other health problems among the elderly. Due to COVID-19, Jo stresses that maintaining quality food service for aged care residents is more important now than ever.
Jo gave us her top tips on how she continues to navigate these uncertain times, and how she makes daily experiences for her residents – and herself – more positive. Jo’s advice will include global thinking on the future of food as it relates to care. She also shares the steps she’s taking to help prevent the transmission of COVID-19.
Tip #1: Upkeep personal hygiene
Personal hygiene is the most effective way to stop the transmission of COVID-19.
Be conscious of what you’re touching throughout the day and make it a habit to wash your hands thoroughly before and after you’ve touched your face and other surfaces.
Sneeze and cough into your elbow to help prevent the spread of germs and dispose of used tissues immediately after use.
Be even more vigilant about your personal hygiene and remind those around you to do the same.
Tip #2: Prioritise health and safety and build a service of success
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, health and safety procedures are paramount as residents are more vulnerable during this time. We need a bridge to connect this with the first tip.
Ensure you uphold the highest food standards and aim for a “finish fresh” service where meals are at their optimum freshness when they are served to residents. This includes heating pre-plated meals right before serving so they are consumed hot. This will eliminate contamination risks and ensure the highest nutrition, taste and presentation.
Increase the availability of hot and nourishing snacks such as soups or stews. Properly seal and freeze portions to ensure food safety and integrity. Make them available at different locations and remember to serve them right after heating.
Break down recipes by ingredient and find the best ways to deliver the tastiest flavours. Brainstorm new ways you to upgrade your offerings and enhance your service to improve the experience for residents. Above all, ensure the health and safety of our residents by abiding by hygiene and food safety regulations.
Tip #3: Share knowledge
As the COVID-19 emergency continues, reach out to suppliers and industry professionals for support and guidance.
Other experts you work alongside can become invaluable sources of information. Share your knowledge as needed and continue to keep communication open.
Tip #4: Stay positive and be kind
Little things can make a big difference to the wellbeing of your residents. Leave a kind note on a resident’s meal tray, smile at people you walk past, and give genuine compliments.
Be the breath of fresh air in these serious times – make people laugh, be playful and continue to engage in fun and interesting conversations.
Make a conscious effort each day to spread positivity and do the best you can to benefit their health and wellbeing.
Tip #5: Be patient
Patience is paramount, especially during these uncertain times. Be kind to those you care for and work with. Remember to show care and take pride in the work you do and know that you are making an invaluable contribution to the people you help on a daily basis.
Winc would like to thank those working in the healthcare sector for their contributions to those in need. If you’d like further support, we can provide you with equipment across our range of technology, furniture, safety, cleaning, education, printing and promotional solutions. Please reach out to our Customer Service team for all your unique needs or visit our website to view the full range.
