Good nutrition is one of the strongest foundations for maintaining health, independence, and quality of life — especially for people receiving home care. Meal delivery services can be incredibly helpful, but only when they’re safe, appropriate, and tailored to the individual.
That’s why our Dietitians take a comprehensive, evidence‑based approach when reviewing or recommending meal delivery services. You can explore the full article here:
👉 https://www.empowerhealthcare.com.au/home-care-dietetians/meal-delivery-services-annual-review/
🌟 Why Dietitian Assessments Matter
Before any meal service is approved or continued, Dietitians conduct a full Initial Assessment to ensure the service aligns with the participant’s medical needs, cultural preferences, and personal goals.
This helps prevent:
- Malnutrition and unintentional weight loss
- Poor management of chronic conditions
- Muscle loss and increased fall risk
- Declining independence
- Unsafe or unsuitable meal choices
🧡 What the Initial Assessment Covers
1. Building Trust & Understanding
Dietitians create a safe, respectful environment and explore:
- Cultural and traditional food preferences
- Personal goals and concerns
- Comfort with sensitive tasks like weighing
2. Health & Background Review
They look at:
- Medical history
- Social and cultural influences
- Recent clinical or functional changes
3. Physical & Nutritional Assessment
This may include:
- Weight checks
- Observing muscle and fat stores
- Identifying signs of malnutrition
4. Dietary Intake Review
Dietitians assess:
- Current eating patterns
- Meal quality and variety
- Shopping habits
- Nutrient and texture needs
5. Evaluating the Meal Delivery Service
They ensure the service is:
- Enjoyable and appetising
- Clinically appropriate (e.g., high‑protein, low‑sodium, texture‑modified)
- Suitable for conditions like diabetes
- Culturally aligned
- Empowering and educational
6. Education & Support
Participants receive guidance to:
- Choose suitable meals and snacks
- Understand nutritional risks
- Build confidence in food choices
7. Clinical Reporting & Communication
Dietitians provide:
- Comprehensive clinical reports
- Progress notes
- Quotes for NDIS or funders
- Letters of support
They also collaborate with GPs, Speech Pathologists, meal providers, and family members.
🔄 Ongoing Reviews: Staying on Track
A 12‑week review is recommended after starting a meal delivery service, with earlier check‑ins for higher‑risk clients. These reviews help identify:
- Inconsistent meal use
- Taste or texture issues
- Unmet clinical needs
- Lack of progress toward goals
Adjustments can then be made to ensure the service continues to support health and wellbeing.
💬 Final Thoughts
Meal delivery services should offer more than convenience — they should actively support a person’s health, dignity, and independence. Empower Healthcare’s Dietitians ensure every recommendation is personalised, clinically justified, and aligned with what matters most to the participant.
Full article available here:
👉 https://www.empowerhealthcare.com.au/home-care-dietetians/meal-delivery-services-annual-review/
