GERIATRIC DIET

Question 1

DISCUSS THE PURPOSE OF THE GERIATRIC DIET

Answer 1

–	High fibre, soft and bland diet
–	Address constipation, chewing and swallowing and taste aversions
–	Indication:
–	Elderly
–	Contraindication:
–	None
–	Notes for implementation:
–	Increasing fluid intake might be a lifestyle problem

Question 2

DISCUSS FOOD ALLOWED IN A GERIATRIC DIET

Answer 2

• Soft fine meat, poultry, stews and eggs
• High fibre grains, breads and cereal
• Cooked Vegetables
• Soft, ripe, canned fruits, fruit puree
• Finger foods (mental illnesses)

Question 3

DISCUSS FOODS TO AVOID IN A GERIATRIC DIET

Answer 3

• Tough, dry meat and connective tissue
• Breadsticks, dry starches and grains
• Raw, hard, gas-forming vegetables
• Raw, hard fruit
• Spicy food that will cause gastric irritation

Question 4

DISCUSS COOKING METHODS ALLOWED AND TO AVOID IN A GERIATRIC DIET

Answer 4

ALLOWED:
•	Steaming
•	Boiling
•	Poaching
•	Baking
•	Sautéing 

TO AVOID:
• Grilling
• Deep-fat frying
• Stir-frying

Question 5

DISCUSS PLATING AND GARNISHING

Answer 5

• Plate as the normal diet
• Use soft herbs, fruit and vegetables to garnish
• Provide suitable utensils for eating