As the Support at Home reforms reshape the aged care landscape, providers face increasing demands to deliver tangible outcomes while navigating operational challenges and costs. Nutrition stands out as a key area for demonstrating real impact.
Poor nutrition can contribute to frailty, increased hospital admissions and reduced independence. Yet ensuring consistent, high-quality meal support for a diverse range of clients remains complex.
Research highlights the scale of the issue. up to 10% of older Australians living independently in the community are malnourished, with a further 35% at risk. Malnutrition in this group is linked to unintentional weight loss, muscle weakening, known as sarcopenia, and higher vulnerability to falls and illness.
The Australian Dietary Guidelines emphasise the need for nutrient-dense foods, adequate protein for muscle maintenance, and balanced portions suited to smaller appetites. These needs can be harder to meet without reliable support.
One effective approach gaining traction is the use of specialised meal delivery services tailored for seniors.
For instance, services like Lite n’ Easy’s My Choice range provide dietitian-designed meals with balanced protein, vegetables, fibre and carbohydrates to support health and wellbeing. These frozen meals offer convenience, ready in minutes, variety, with over 55 options including soups and desserts, and portion sizes appropriate for older appetites.
For providers, integrating such services can streamline operations. Under Support at Home funding, meal preparation and delivery can be included in client plans, with funding potentially covering up to 70% of costs, depending on individual assessments.
This allows providers to focus staff time on clinical and personal care, while still evidencing strong nutrition outcomes in line with program expectations.
Client feedback underscores the difference reliable nutrition can make. Ron and Lynn from South Australia share, “Mealtimes are now simple, enjoyable and stress-free. We’re genuinely impressed by the quality, variety and convenience of the meals, which help us maintain a healthy, balanced diet without the effort of meal preparation.”
Margaret and Graham in Western Australia add, “It has made our lives so much easier. Every evening, my husband tells me how much he enjoys the meals. The portions and flavours are just right for our age and needs. We are both eating well, wasting less food, and I have more time and energy to focus on the things that matter most.”
Joan, 93, from South Australia, notes, “These meals have helped me eat well, regain my independence and continue enjoying simple moments in the kitchen. This has been a very affordable option for me and I love the convenience of delivery.”
Sylvia, 84, also from South Australia, says, “With meal support and my home care funding, I have reclaimed my life and independence. I feel healthier and am keeping a healthy weight.”
Internal data from users of such services shows promising results. Eighty-nine per cent report improved quality of life, with many rating their health significantly higher after regular access to nutritious meals.
As the sector adapts to Support at Home, collaborating with established, evidence-based meal providers can help demonstrate progress in client nutrition and independence while easing administrative and workforce pressures.
Providers interested in adding meal preparation and delivery to client plans can discuss options with clients and plan managers. Services like My Choice by Lite n’ Easy are widely partnered with Support at Home providers nationwide.
Lite n’ Easy is currently offering new customers their first delivery free for a limited time with promo code SAHFREE. For more details, visit liteneasy.com.au/support-at-home or call 13 15 12.
