Food glorious food

Mealtime is probably the highlight of the day for your client. It is an integral part of why you are there. Make sure you know how to prepare simple nutritious meals for your clients. Food safety and hygiene should be covered in your training, but make it your business to have as much kitchen knowledge as possible.

Practice makes perfect

If you know cooking might be a problem for you, get some practice in before you leave home. Get some good recipe books or search on YouTube, there is tons of free information out there. You might have a favourite chef who has done beginner courses and videos you can learn from.

Jamie shows us how

I am a  big fan of  Jamie Oliver and this site has everything to get you started. Explore the whole site, there is tons of information there to get you up and running. There is also a brilliant video of what NOT to do in a kitchen.

You will find so many useful sites, pick one you like and learn as much as you can.

Easily chewed and swallowed foods

You need to continue with your clients preferred diet when caring for them. However, you will be more confident if you arrive with a repertoire of at least five breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, plus some decent puddings (bread and butter pudding is an absolute must.) Remember that your clients are likely to have problems with things like chewing, and maybe even swallowing, so choose meals that are easily tolerated by older folk.

Supermarket lifesavers 

Supermarkets also make things easy these days with nearly ready to eat things like fish already battered and crumbed. All you have to do is prepare them exactly as stated on the packaging and add some well prepared and cooked vegetables.  If salads are suitable for your client, make sure pieces are cut small to make it easier for them, Custard, jellies and ice cream are evergreen favourites for dessert.

Check the online stores to get an idea of what is available in the shops that would be suitable for older peoples menus.

Practice makes perfect

Well presented and tasty food will make your client happy and keep them healthy. You might even be forgiven for other things you aren't that good at as long as they enjoy your food.