Advice and resources : Care home nutrition and dietetics resources

Understanding weight changes

In this webinar we discuss the science behind energy balance and the impact this can have on a care home resident’s weight. We cover practical guidance on identifying patterns in weight and energy intake as well as how to spot concerning, unexpected weight loss in care home residents.

Understanding MUST score

In this webinar, we discuss screening for malnutrition risk using the MUST tool. We cover what each MUST score means, and provide the top 10 tips of what to do following MUST screening.

Support guides and websites

BAPEN

BAPEN raises awareness of malnutrition and works to advance the nutritional care of patients and those at risk from malnutrition in the wider community. They have an easy-to-use MUST calculator on their website.

• Use the MUST calculator on the the BAPEN website

Making the most of what you eat

In this webinar, we talk about the role and importance of a food first approach in adding extra energy to the diet of a care home resident who is at risk of malnutrition.

We cover food fortification and how this can be applied practically in a care home setting, as well as simple, everyday tips on adding high calorie snacks and nourishing drinks to a resident’s diet.

Support guides and videos

Homemade fortified milkshakes

In this webinar we cover the benefits of improving nutrition and hydration and simple ways to do so using recipes for fortified milk and homemade fortified milkshakes.

We cover why homemade fortified milkshakes are recommended for malnourished residents in care homes, and the nutritional value that homemade fortified milkshakes provide.

Support guides and videos

Eating well in dementia

In this webinar, we provide advice on helping nursing home residents with dementia to eat and drink and tips for overcoming the common challenges in providing nutrition to residents with dementia.

Hints and tips for eating and drinking as conditions progress

Here we discuss progressive conditions and how the symptoms can affect eating and drinking.

We cover tips and advice to improving your resident’s nutrition and hydration through assisting to eat and making food and drink more nourishing. 

Considerations for residents nearing the end of life

In this webinar, we talk about what end of life means and how aims change from maximising nutrition towards providing comfort and quality of life. We also cover tips for providing food and drink at the end of life.

Prescribing oral nutritional supplements

The Prescribing Support Dietitians within Berkshire discuss the importance of prescribing oral nutritional supplements (ONS) appropriately and prioritising a food first approach within care homes.

The team covers what ONS are, when a prescription of ONS may, or may not be appropriate, how patients can get the most out of taking their ONS and the importance of reviewing prescriptions of ONS regularly.