This month, Karen Casanovas's book she co-authored with Jim Britt, "Cracking the Rich Code," Volume 19, will be available for purchase online and in selected stores. To pre-order go to her website: karencasanovas.com.
Q: As staff members in assisted living, we must once again adjust our menus with the understanding how challenging this can be for both us and the older adults we care for. Despite having a printed schedule, any changes can be confusing for residents. What strategies can we implement to ease this transition and support them during this time?
A: As a coach with deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by older adults in assisted living facilities, menu updates are best addressed with empathy and clarity. When implementing these transitions, it is crucial to acknowledge the emotional nuances and cognitive impacts involved, particularly for individuals facing memory issues. Here are some compassionate approaches rooted in neuroeducation principles to help facilitate these changes:
1. Prioritize familiarity
Older adults often find comfort in familiarity, especially when dealing with changes that affect their daily lives. When introducing new menu options, it is vital to maintain elements of the familiar. For example, if a certain type of meal has been popular, continue serving that while gradually introducing new recipes that incorporate similar flavors or textures. This approach not only respects their preferences, but also engages positive memory associations, making the transition smoother. Avoid overwhelming those in your care with sudden changes.
2. Incorporate memory aids
Use visual cues and memory aids to help residents adapt to meal selections. Placing colorful posters or clear, easy-to-read menus in common areas can reinforce choices and serve as reminders. Engaging creative methods, such as photo menus that display each meal option, can assist those with cognitive challenges in visualizing what they can expect.
3. Leverage social interaction
Schedule opportunities for communal dining or cafeteria gatherings to enhance engagement. Social interactions can significantly benefit cognitive health and emotional well-being. Organize themed meal nights that involve pair work or small group activities. This not only fosters camaraderie but can also make the experiences more enjoyable and memorable, creating positive associations with the changes.
4. Encourage personal choice and involvement
Where possible, allow residents to participate in the selection process for meal choices. This could be through simple surveys about preferred food items or suggestions for side dishes. Empowering individuals to express their choices creates a sense of agency that is vital for mental well-being, reinforcing their control over these changes.
5. Use neuroeducational techniques
Implement strategies informed by neuroeducation to foster engagement and understanding. For instance, explaining the reasoning behind certain meal changes-such as nutritional benefits-can provide context and encourage buy-in. Ensure that information is conveyed in a straightforward manner, using simple language and repetition to reinforce understanding.
6. Foster an environment of positivity and support
Create a supportive atmosphere that celebrates small victories. Offer praise and encouragement when residents try new foods. Positive reinforcement plays an essential role in neuroplasticity, helping to condition the brain to associate new experiences with joy and success.
7. Listen and adjust
Lastly, it is vital to listen to the feedback from residents. Regularly check in with them, observe their responses to changes, and adjust accordingly. An open forum for residents to express their feelings about what they are eating can provide invaluable insights, allowing you to make necessary adjustments that resonate with their needs.
By integrating these strategies into the transition process for meals at group living facilities, we respect the dignity of older adults while fostering resilience in facing change. Understanding and applying principles from neuroeducation will not only enhance their experience but also empower individuals to adapt to new menu options.
In November 2025 Karen Casanovas's book she co-authored with Jim Britt, "Cracking the Rich Code," Volume 19, will be available for purchase online and in selected stores. To pre-order go to her website: karencasanovas.com.
Karen Casanovas, PCC, CPCC, CLIPP is a certified resilience coach, author, and speaker dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations with practical tools and strategies grounded in neuroscience, positive psychology, and cognitive-behavioral frameworks. With over 40 years of experience as an award-winning leadership executive in diverse cultural settings, she enables people to thrive amid stress and adversity. If you have questions write to her at info@karencasanovas.com
