Dining for Dementia (Care Homes): Transforming Eating and Drinking Through Understanding the Lived Experience
Parallel 1
17 November, 2026 12:00 – 1:10 pmMini Presentations Group 1
Karen Hodges
Group Dementia Lead
Care South
Summary
Background
People living with dementia frequently experience challenges with eating and drinking, increasing their risk of malnutrition, dehydration and reduced quality of life. Recognising that mealtime experiences are influenced by environmental, social and organisational factors. A care provider operating 14 care homes developed the Dining for Dementia (DfD) initiative to improve nutrition, hydration and mealtime experiences through a collaborative, whole-home approach.
Aim
To understand the lived experience of eating and drinking for people living with dementia and implement sustainable, person-centred improvements that enhance mealtime experiences and nutritional wellbeing.
Methods
The project began with a period of discovery across participating care homes. Mealtime observations were undertaken alongside conversations and interviews with residents, relatives and staff to better understand the challenges affecting eating and drinking. Findings identified a range of issues, including sensory overload, environmental distractions, inconsistent approaches to support, and limited understanding of how dementia can affect the dining experience.
In response, a multi-component improvement programme was developed. Staff participated in DIET (Dining Immersive Experiential Training), an immersive learning programme designed to help participants experience some of the sensory, cognitive and environmental challenges that people living with dementia may encounter during mealtimes. Facilitators then worked alongside teams within homes, role modelling best practice and supporting the implementation of practical changes.