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October 31, 1997
(Health)


Lakeside Homes review completed

An independent review of the planning, preparation, and delivery of food to residents of Lakeside Homes in Gander has been completed and the report of the registered dietician, Mary Wyn Clair, has been delivered to the Minister of Health, Joan Marie Aylward. The minister commissioned the review at the request of the Central East Health Board, after concerns were raised by residents and their families.

"I want to commend the board members for their willingness to act so quickly on this very important issue," said the minister. "Both the Department of Health and the chairman of the Central East Board have accepted the report in its totality. I think when all the board members complete their review the changes which they will be able to make will improve the quality of food and food choices, as well as allow the residents of Lakeside Homes to help determine their own menus and become more involved in other aspects of the food services process at the home."

Several changes which were recommended by the consultant included: transferring the baker from the James Paton Hospital to do the baking at Lakeside Homes, for both the hospital and the home, so that residents in the home will receive a variety of baked goods and the added pleasure of the aroma of home-style cooking; the formation of a committee, including residents, to plan menus; and combining the part-time positions of supervisor and dietician to ensure the residents have a strong advocate to voice their needs and concerns. This person will also be responsible for monitoring taste and the evaluation of food and meal menus for Lakeside Homes. The consultant said it was not necessary to reinstate the kitchen at Lakeside Homes as the recommended changes would address the concerns raised by the residents.

"Our seniors deserve to be heard. The concerns of the residents are legitimate and I think we have acted quickly to address them," said the minster. "We must always try our very best to provide our seniors with the types of high quality nutritional food they want, excellent food preparation and enough food to satisfy their appetites. In other words, we need to achieve a balance between healthy food and that which is tasty and desirable to the residents of Lakeside Homes."

Sandra Kelly, Minister of Tourism and MHA - Gander, said she was pleased with the consultant's acknowledgment of the quality work being done by the staff at Lakeside Homes and also with the improvements which will be implemented there. "I have been a member of the board at Lakeside Homes and I know the staff there are very conscientious in their efforts on behalf of residents. I am confident that when the board implements the recommendations we will see the concerns of residents and their families fully addressed."

The review of the dietary system at Lakeside Homes included the measurement of food temperatures, tasting of food, interviews with residents and staff, and the assessment of procedures. Minister Aylward said the administration of Lakeside Homes will continue to work with residents and will involve more residents and families in implementing the recommendations to improve the quality of services. She added that changes identified in this review would take place as soon as possible.

Contact: Glenn Bruce, Director of Communications, (709) 729-1377.

1997 10 31 2:55 p.m.

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