Anyone For Tea?

Residents at Lynhales Hall Nursing Home in Lyonshall near Kington, enjoyed a scrumptious afternoon tea, whilst helping to promote an important message.

They were taking part in a “Worldwide Afternoon Tea” event – part of national Nutrition and Hydration Week which ran from 17 – 23 March.   The week is aimed at generating action across all health and social care settings to raise awareness of the vital importance of good nutrition and hydration.

Service providers such as Lynhales, which looks after 73 residents, were encouraged to serve afternoon tea to residents and their visitors.  Afternoon tea was chosen to demonstrate how even a simple meal occasion can be used to promote good nutrition and hydration.  Not only does it support the “three meals and two snacks a day” guidance, it can also help with boosting calorie intake if required, and can be adapted for those with specific dietary needs.  On top of all this, afternoon tea can also serve a vital social and emotional role which helps with overall wellbeing.

At Lynhales, it was certainly a jolly affair.  The afternoon started with a few lively games of bingo, which is always a favourite with the residents (and staff!).  Refreshments followed, including a selection of different teas from around the world and such delights as fresh cream scones, Victoria sponge and fruit loaf – all served in pretty vintage chinaware.

Meg Fallon, Manager at Lynhales Hall, said “Everybody really enjoyed themselves.  It was especially nice that family members were able to share the experience of eating a meal with their loved ones, as we usually operate a protected mealtimes policy.”  She added, “We place a huge emphasis on nutrition here, and our kitchen staff work wonders to cater for individual preferences, dietary requirements and medical necessities such as soft diets.  I don’t know how they do it!”