Opportunities for better health in the elderly through various forms of mass catering.

Mass catering systems can be used to provide food for the elderly in their own homes, in luncheon clubs, in residential homes and similar establishments and in hospitals. Food and service should be not only nutritionally correct, but also pleasing and acceptable. Eating contributes to psychological and social as well as physical health. Because of limited budgets, strict control of suppliers must be maintained with clear specifications of all items. Staff responsible for menu planning and food service must be adequately trained. Meals should be enjoyable as well as healthy.