Failure to Provide Palatable and Attractive Food to Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide food that was palatable, attractive, and served at an appetizing temperature for the majority of residents reviewed. Multiple residents reported that the food was bland, mushy, overcooked, and repetitive, with some stating that their dislikes and preferences were not honored. Observations confirmed that vegetables were often overcooked and watery, and fried foods were tough or soggy. Residents also reported that the same foods, such as chicken, instant mashed potatoes, and green beans, were served repeatedly, and that meal variety and texture were lacking. Resident interviews revealed dissatisfaction with the quality and presentation of meals, with several residents stating that the food was not appealing or fit to eat. Some residents with moderate to severe cognitive impairment, as well as those with diagnoses such as dementia, stroke, heart failure, depression, and malnutrition, expressed that their dietary needs and preferences were not being met. Grievance logs and resident council minutes documented ongoing complaints about food quality, temperature, lack of variety, and failure to honor dislikes, with issues persisting over several months. During meal observations, surveyors and the Dietary Manager noted that food items such as country fried steak and Brussel sprouts were not prepared to an acceptable standard, with soggy breading and mushy vegetables. The Dietary Manager acknowledged awareness of the complaints and agreed with the observations but stated there was no food palatability policy in place. Despite in-service education and discussions with dietary staff, the issues with food quality and resident satisfaction remained unresolved at the time of the survey.