Complaint·September 27, 2022

Director of Dining Services stated they have changed their food ordering system and vendors. On 6/24/2022, LPA Olson interviewed Dining Room Manager, who stated they offer a low sodium soup every day, and any items on the menu can be made with lower salt. On 9/20/2022, LPA Kontilis toured the kitchen and observed it to be clean and sanitary. LPA observed an adequate amount of food and the food appeared to be of good quality. On 9/20/2022, LPA Kontilis interviewed the Director of Dining Services again, as well as a chef at the facility. Director of Dining Services indicated they will accommodate any special diets indicated on doctor’s orders. They use a computer system and if a resident has a special diet ordered, once the resident’s food order is put into the system, a red box appears with a warning about the allergy or special diet. Dining Services Director stated only one resident has a low sodium diet, and it is a preference, not a doctor’s order. However, they still try to accommodate this preference. LPA attempted to interview the one resident in the computer system who has an indicated preference of a low-salt diet. However, the resident did not respond to LPA’s requests for interview. LPA interviewed residents about the food. The concerns about the food were based on personal preference and did not indicate any food was of a poor quality. Dining Services Director indicated the dining room also implemented comment cards for residents to provide feedback on the food. The dining committee reviews them together and tracks the comments on a spreadsheet, starting in May 2022. Dining Services Director stated they review the comments cards to see what areas can be improved. One example provided was they purchased a Sous vide machine to cook the steaks and other meats very gently, which results in a tender product. Dining Services Director stated they have increased their spending on food, including switching from frozen fish to fresh fish. Based on comments cards, they informed their kitchen staff to cut back on salt a little, and the staff have complied. Another comment mentioned was the portions were small. However, other comments mentioned the portions were too large and food went to waste, so they cut down the portion size for the initial meal, and residents can ask for more. Executive Director noted there are about 50 to 60 items on the menu to provide ample choice to residents. Executive Director stated their menu changes seasonally, and they incorporate fruits and vegetables that are locally available and in season. Based on the information obtained, the allegation is deemed Unsubstantiated at this time. However, the LPA recommends the facility continue to make adjustments to the menu and food preparation process based on the resident feedback in the interviews and on the comment cards. Exit interview conducted, report issued via email.