Enhanced Dining

Dining is such an integral piece
of life in every culture.

In our homes, dining is so
much more than just nutrition.

It is flavor, fellowship, family, socializing, tradition and culture.

Unfortunately, as long-term care
regulations tightened
over the years,
mealtimes became institutional
and focused on clinical nutrition.

The culture change movement is committed to reversing the trend.

Family-style, restaurant-style, buffets and other options are springing up in retirement communities everywhere.

See our Links page for more information on the national movement.

At Fairview Haven, we have made great strides in improving
the dining experience here over the past few years.
We plan for further improvements in the future.

BEFORE AT FAIRVIEW HAVEN:

A chime bell rang at each mealtime.
Residents were expected to be at the table at a certain time to eat.
Each person was served the same meal.
Substitute dishes were available, but residents were often not aware of them or not encouraged to make the choice.

Beverages and snacks, etc. were available, but only in the kitchen.

For sanitary reasons, the dining room was used only at mealtimes and was considered off-limits at other times.

TODAY AT FAIRVIEW HAVEN:

The meal chime bell was discontinued. It created an institutional atmosphere.
Do we have bells ringing at mealtimes in our own homes?

Dining rooms were redecorated and a new look chosen for tables and chairs.

Restaurant-style meal service began in 2004.
Illinois State Senator Dan Rutherford joined us for a meal to inaugurate our restaurant-style meal service.
Individual menus are placed at the tables.
Residents select their choices and are served by the waiters (staff or volunteers).

A salad bar and soup kettle are available frequently.
One of our residents called the salad bar "the best improvement yet."

Breakfast service has been extended over several hours to accommodate
the early birds and those who wish to sleep longer.

Hospitality is warm as residents are encouraged
to invite guests to join them for a meal.

Raiding the refrigerator is a common event,
as snacks, ice cream, beverages and popcorn are readily available.

The dining room is now an inviting room
where people enjoy socializing, playing games, etc.

Click the links below to see some of our dining improvements.

Residents enjoy fresh selections from the salad bar.


Old friends share a birthday lunch.


Cook-outs and eating on the patio are dining highlights.


Dining out through our Traveling Tastebuds program is another dining option.


Family Potlucks are a much-anticipated event.


Special occasion meals, such as the Resident and Staff Christmas supper, create delightful opportunities for relationship-building.


Wiener roasts offer the delightful tastes of fall.


Snacks, beverages and ice cream are readily available at all times.


Happiness is choosing an ice cream treat!