Supporting better nutrition, meal quality and dining experiences in residential aged care.

A Menu and Mealtime Quality Assessment is a comprehensive review of the food, drinks and dining experiences provided to residents within an aged care facility.

It goes beyond simply checking what's on the menu. Our Dietitians assess whether residents are receiving appropriate nutrition, whether meals meet their individual needs and preferences, and how the overall dining experience supports their health, independence and quality of life.

Under the strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards, residential aged care providers are required to have their menus reviewed at least annually through a menu and mealtime assessment conducted by an Accredited Practising Dietitian.

Healthy Lifestyles Australia provides professional assessments to support facilities in evaluating their services against Standard 6: Food and Nutrition, identifying areas for improvement and demonstrating their commitment to quality nutritional care.

What Does an Aged Care Menu Review Include?

Our assessments can examine:

• Menu Nutrition: Whether the food and drinks provided offer adequate energy, protein, calcium and other essential nutrients.

• Menu Variety and Choice: Whether residents have access to a suitable range of nutritious, appealing meals, snacks and drinks.

• Special Dietary Requirements: Consideration of texture-modified meals, modified diets, allergies, intolerances and individual nutritional needs.

• Meal Portions: Review of portion sizes and whether meals appropriately support residents' nutritional requirements.

• Mealtime Experience: Assessment of the dining environment, meal presentation, resident choice, independence and enjoyment.

• Resident Feedback: Consideration of residents' food preferences, satisfaction and opportunities to participate in menu planning.

• Food and Nutrition Practices: Review of relevant procedures, documentation and nutrition-related processes.

What Will Your Facility Receive?

Following the assessment, your facility will receive a professional written report detailing the findings, areas of strength and recommendations for improvement.

Our aim is to provide practical, achievable recommendations that assist your team in delivering high-quality food and nutrition services while supporting your obligations under the Aged Care Quality Standards.

Who Is This Service For?

Residential aged care facilities, aged care organisations, facility managers, clinical care managers, food service managers and catering teams seeking independent professional review of their food and dining services.

Need an Aged Care Menu Review?

Contact our team to discuss your facility's requirements and receive a free, no-obligation quote.