Download: Checklist for Aged Care Providers Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards
The Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards (Standard 6) will establish a comprehensive framework of excellence in food and dining services in Australia’s residential care industry.
In preparation for the changes outlined in the new Quality Standards, this checklist highlights essential areas of focus, ensuring your operations align with the new framework, maintaining regulatory compliance, mitigating risks, and providing higher-quality care through exceptional food and dining experiences.
16 steps to get ready for the Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards (Standard 6)
Partnering with residents on food service (Outcome 6.1)
- Schedule meetings with residents to gather feedback on current food services.
- Establish a resident food committee to provide ongoing input and collaboration.
Monitoring and improving food service (Outcome 6.2)
- Create a framework for regular assessments of food quality, presentation, and variety.
- Implement feedback mechanisms for residents and staff to report any issues or suggestions for improvement.
Assessing nutritional needs and dining preferences (Outcome 6.3)
- Schedule individual consultations with residents to assess their nutritional needs (such as texture-modified foods) and dining preferences.
- Set up systems to monitor and accommodate factors such as dietary restrictions, cultural preferences, and personal tastes.
Design appealing and varied menus with dietitian input (Outcome 6.4)
- Collaborate with dietitians and industry experts to develop menus that meet nutritional requirements and cater to diverse tastes.
- Ensure menus offer a variety of options for different dietary needs and preferences.
Enabling choice and tailoring meals (Outcome 6.5)
- Implement a system that allows residents to select their meals in advance or choose from multiple options at meal times.
- Provide alternatives for residents with specific dietary requirements (such as those requiring texture-modified meals) or preferences.
Providing nutritious snacks and drinks 24/7 (Outcome 6.6)
- Stock designated areas with a variety of healthy snacks and beverages accessible to residents at all times.
- Ensure snacks and drinks meet nutritional guidelines and accommodate dietary restrictions.
Supporting residents during dining (Outcome 6.7)
- Train staff to assist residents who require help with meal preparation, serving, or eating.
- Implement assistive devices or modifications to dining areas to support residents with mobility or dexterity issues.
Fostering social dining experiences (Outcome 6.8)
- Organise regular social dining events such as themed meals, group cooking activities, or communal dining outings.
- Create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere in dining areas to encourage social interaction among residents.
This checklist has been developed by The Pure Food Co and should serve as a helpful guide to help you prepare for new Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards. Please note that it is not intended to replace a full and careful consideration of the new framework and consultation with expert guidance.
