Meal planning for adult foster care homes, also known as group homes, is a multifaceted process. Planners must consider the residents' health and preferences, the home's budget and preparation capabilities and the legal ramifications of menu planning. State laws govern the meal planning and delivery services to adults in foster care homes. The menus you construct will have a direct impact on the residents' nutrition level and overall health.
Step 1
Look up your state's legislation regarding meal planning and delivery. This information is found on the state department of health's website. These laws define when and how meal planning is to be executed in an adult foster home.
Step 2
Interview each resident to learn more about his general health and nutritional needs. If a resident has apparent nutrition concerns, such as a history of diabetes or is taking multiple prescription medications, consider having a registered dietitian evaluate that individual's needs.
Step 3
Plan meals week by week, and post the menus in an easily visible location. Take a piece of paper and make seven vertical columns -- one for each day of the week. Then make five horizontal columns -- one for each meal plus two for snacks.
Step 4
Plan to offer at least three food groups at each meal and snack. Peruse your local farmer's market and supermarket produce section paying attention to what fruits, vegetables and meats are on sale or in season.
Step 5
Include fruits and vegetables in each meal and snack, providing a plethora of varied choices throughout the week so each resident can get a rainbow of nutrients from varied natural sources.
Step 6
Provide 46 grams of protein for each female resident and 56 grams for each male resident daily. Older adults with health problems or chronic illness may require more protein to heal. Protein is found in a variety of healthy foods including milk, yogurt, legumes and lean meats.
Tips and Warnings
- Canned vegetables and fruits provide an inexpensive alternative to fresh produce; however, they can be salt and sugar laden. Purchase canned goods with no added salts or sugars.
- Talk to a dietitian about meal planning for special elder populations such as those on a diabetic, cardiac or renal diet, or those requiring religious or ethical considerations such as a kosher diet.
Things You'll Need
- Printed weekly menu for posting
