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Enhancing the Dining Experience in Senior Living Communities
A new generation of retired adults is moving to senior living, and they’re bringing a list of must-haves as they prepare to enjoy the next chapter of life.
Senior living communities, including those by Sequoia Living, are enhancing their dining experiences to meet the evolving expectations of a new generation of retired adults. This transformation moves away from traditional cafeteria-style dining towards a more social atmosphere featuring chef-prepared meals and a broader range of options. Communities now offer diverse settings, from quick and casual bistros to formal dining rooms, and even include café areas and alfresco dining, as exemplified by Sequoia Living’s Viamonte Life Plan Community in Walnut Creek. These improvements reflect residents' desire for dining to remain a focal point for social bonding and a part of their weekly schedule, aligning with their increased understanding of healthy aging.
From upscale amenities to spacious floor plans, Life Plan Retirement Communities (also known as CCRCs) are transforming to serve residents better.
As older adults become increasingly informed about health and wellness, senior living communities are evolving to meet and exceed their expectations. Discerning consumers are becoming more selective, knowing exactly what they want and expecting higher standards, including dietary needs stemming from an increased understanding of what it means to age healthfully.
More than a fitness center or yoga classes (which are often available, too), the senior living industry is focusing on the dining options offered to residents. Here’s the latest:
How are senior living communities enhancing the dining experience beyond just food?
The baby boomer generation grew up with the dining table as a focal point of family bonding and friendship building. Going out to dinner was, and continues to be, a staple of their social lives. For some, it’s even a part of their weekly schedule.
Because of this, communities are moving away from lunch lines, food trays, and cafeteria-style dining spaces. Instead, Sequoia Living communities emphasize a social atmosphere and chef-prepared food.
This means an enhanced dining experience with a broader range of options than in the past. While one end of the campus might hold a quick and casual bistro, the other might feature a more formal setting. Many new communities, such as Sequoia Living’s Viamonte Life Plan Community in Walnut Creek, offer café areas and even alfresco dining, depending on the climate.
What kind of dining variety can residents expect in senior living communities?
Many communities have begun developing daily specials following the cultural shift towards more organic, seasonal, and fresh foods. What was once a shortlist has expanded into a full assortment of menu choices.
Part of that is because kitchens in senior living communities are becoming much more accommodating than they were in years past. While vegan and vegetarian options used to be a second thought, they’re fundamental across Sequoia Living communities. And that’s not the only thing that’s becoming commonplace.
Outside of dietary preferences, head chefs are getting more comfortable adapting their offerings to suit the stomachs of their residents. The general rule has become, “If the ingredients are in-house, we’ll do our best to make it.” Some residents will even offer their own homemade recipes around the holiday season for festive meals and desserts.
The main takeaway is that a Life Plan Community has abundant food choices. No longer is mealtime a “one size fits all” arrangement. Instead, it’s about catering to the wants and needs of each resident in a way that checks off each box of their dietary journey.
How does resident feedback enhance the dining experience in senior living communities?
Most changes to dining in senior living communities are driven by resident feedback. While residents have always shared their thoughts with staff and leadership, technology makes tracking and responding to popular requests easier.
For example, some of the more tech-savvy communities use platforms allowing residents to order and make dining reservations online. This means the dining options available on campus are getting an upgrade.
No more waiting in line for coffee at the cafe – just place your order and pick it up at your leisure. Or, if you plan to eat at one of the more formal venues on campus, you can reserve a table or private dining over the phone or online.
