The importance of mealtime cannot be overestimated. Obviously it is important from the viewpoint of nourishment for our bodies. Here at Kendal we are fortunate that our food service is excellent. We have a chef in charge who works to provide variety as well as nutritious foods. We have lots of fresh fruits and vegetables which include those recommended especially for maintaining the health of older folks. We have at least three entrees: usually one meat, one fish, and one vegetarian. Special foods are available for those with special needs such as gluten free diets. Our dining staff is familiar with what is allowed for those with these needs and can help them make appropriate choices.
Our food service staff includes the cooks whom we don't see much of because they work behind the scenes but we get to know and appreciate them from the food they prepare. The servers are quick to learn our names and quickly catch on to our own little peculiarities or needs. e.g. When I had a problem with my hands and arms and couldn't reach up over the high part of the serving line they brought my plate to the low end where I could handle it without dropping it.
The wait staff stand ready to help those who need assistance carrying trays. Sometimes they will seat the person, take the order, and collect the food, and bring it to the resident. They will also gladly fetch things forgotten such as a glass for milk, a glass of water, or bring more coffee. Sometimes they will assist the less abled by getting them coffee and dessert at the end of the meal. They also clear the table when the meal is finished.
We have a dining committee made up of staff members and residents who meet regularly to review comments that have been written about the food service. The chef and the dining staff manager take notes and make every effort to improve situations that need to be changed. The chef keeps track of who cooks what on which day so that he can go back and check what recipe was used and other particulars if a complaint is made about a particular item.
In addition to nourishment of the the body, mealtime provides an opportunity to feed ones spirit. Because we have no assigned seating arrangements and no precise time assignments we have the freedom to choose with whom we will eat. This allows for greater interaction among the residents. The opportunity to eat with others is a huge advantage for those of us who were living alone due to the loss of a spouse before we moved in. Once again we can enjoy company at mealtime. Tables for two, four, six, or eight are available which adds to the freedom of choice of mealtime partners. However, if you prefer to eat alone, special containers are available that allow us to take food home.
The time spent eating together gives us a chance to get to know one another better. It provides ties that bind us together and help to make us truly a community and not just a bunch of people who happen to live in the same part of Granville. I have learned lots of interesting things about my fellow residents as well as caught up on the news. Other times I've just enjoyed being able to reminicse with people of a similar age group.
Two of the favorites that feed us spiritually and physically are the ice cream and cookies. They rank high on the list of comfort foods everywhere and Kendal is no different.
From the beginning there has been a large plate of assorted large freshly made cookies on the counter convenient to the exit door . They are irresitable for most who pass by either to go with a final cup of coffee or a glass of milk or for a late evening snack. Several flavors of ice cream are available daily. The flavors change from day to day. They can be served in a plain dish or with hot fudge or in a cone. For some the perfect way to end the day is with a sugar cone as they leave the dining room to return home for the day.
Is it any wonder that mealtimes mark the major divisions of our daily life when you consider their significance in our life?
