Catholic Healthcare has elevated the dining experience for residents by introducing buffet dining. This flexible model of serving meals marks a significant move towards fostering independence, promoting individual choice, and enhancing social connection at every mealtime reflecting the principles of Inspirit model of care.
Residents now have more autonomy and opportunities to connect with one another, making every meal not just nourishing, but truly enjoyable and interactive. The buffet dining model encourages residents to make their own selections, fostering a sense of empowerment and belonging within their community.
During the February meeting of the Quality Care Advisory Body (QCAB) for residential care, resident and QCAB member, Michael, expressed his excitement about the introduction of buffet dining within his own residential care home.
The Quality Care Advisory Body (QCAB) for residential care empowers members (residents, family members and employees) to actively contribute their perspectives and ideas for enhancing care. Feedback gathered during these sessions is presented to the Catholic Healthcare Board, where it is carefully considered and used to inform decisions that drive continuous improvement in care outcomes.
Since October 2025, Michael’s residential care home has adopted buffet dining, with hospitality teams now serving meals directly from a heated buffet in the dining room. Michael conveyed his genuine enthusiasm for this new dining style, highlighting its positive impact on residents’ independence, choice, and social interaction during mealtimes.
‘I certainly enjoy mealtimes much more and it's obvious that other residents do too, the room now has a stronger sense of communal dining and is more enjoyable,’ said Michael.
He continued, ‘Being able to see meals being plated creates a sense of 'just prepared' freshness and they are! Meals are now fresh and moist. Limited personal choices are available too, it's now easier to dodge those things you don't like, (no sauces/gravy for me thanks!!).
Allowing residents to view an appealing display of food and select their preferred dishes not only stimulates their appetite but also transforms mealtimes into a more enjoyable and engaging experience.
‘Even the occasional clatter of plates and cutlery add to the dining atmosphere. While residents don't usually ask for more food, often hospitality team members will wander the room offering more if there are leftovers, a few say yes cutting down on waste,’ Michael stated.
If you’re keen to become a member of Catholic Healthcare’s Quality Care Advisory Body (QCAB), stay tuned as registrations will be opening soon.