Exceptional Dining: A Key Ingredient For A Fulfilling Lifestyle

Nothing shapes — or caps off — an enjoyable day quite like an extraordinary meal served in comfortable surroundings. And nothing fuels an active, engaged lifestyle like dishes made from the finest ingredients and prepared with the utmost care. 

Many of the most cherished experiences are shared amidst a delicious meal with family and friends. This is true of seniors housing communities, where the opportunity to eat with friends and neighbors in a relaxed atmosphere is one of the primary benefits. At the senior living communities where we work, creating these special moments is our mission.

Elevating residents’ dining experiences absolutely improves their overall lifestyle. From our residents’ perspective, that process begins with the host or hostess who welcomes them with a friendly smile. The experience carries through to the server who anticipates their every need and the expert chefs who prepare ideal dishes for any given occasion, providing a delectable conclusion.

At Erickson Senior Living, we’re constantly working behind the scenes to raise the bar and exceed our residents’ expectations. Erickson follows several guiding principles to ensure our dining programs meet our residents’ changing needs and preferences.

Empower resident choice through signature dining

Our Signature Dining program is based on a simple yet powerful concept — our residents deserve delicious meals that are cooked to order; prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients; and reflect a variety of flavors. Menus that feature regional favorites, seasonal dishes and weekly specials offer a greater range of options  and the ability to customize dishes based on personal taste.

Our dining teams regularly interact with residents in our restaurants and through dining committees to secure feedback on resident favorites and new areas of opportunity. This ongoing engagement ensures our offerings keep pace with residents’ evolving tastes and needs.

For example, we know many residents are monitoring their cholesterol, avoiding sugar or generally trying to eat healthier. Therefore, we expanded the “Healthier Choice” selections of our menu and began posting nutritional information on the My Erickson resident app. These steps empower residents to make important lifestyle choices as they prioritize their well-being.

Stay ahead of the curve

The demand for more plant-based options has been building in the broader dining industry for years. What started as a geo-specific push for more vegetarian or even vegan offerings has gone nationwide. Not surprisingly, the trend has simultaneously gained momentum in senior living communities.

In response, our team has launched pilot programs featuring plant-based meals at appropriate communities and intends to expand the program in 2025. Given the growing number of seniors interested in eating less meat and shifting toward a more plant-based diet, we believe this is an area ripe for growth. 

Erickson is also in the early stages of creating a culinary test kitchen where innovation will flourish in the creation of new recipes and processes.

The setting matters

For many seniors, mealtime represents more than food — it’s an opportunity to gather with friends, socialize, and celebrate life’s moments.

As providers, we must recognize that dining is a core element of the senior housing community social experience. When residents come together around a meal, they aren’t merely satisfying their hunger, but building relationships, sharing stories and creating memories. A well-designed dining program can foster a sense of community and improve overall well-being.

Given this, we must offer multiple dining venues that fit different preferences and lifestyles. Whether it’s a casual pub where residents can catch up over lunch or a fine dining venue where they can savor a chef-prepared meal, variety is key. Giving residents options not only empowers them with choice but also enriches their social lives by offering diverse settings for connection.

Building on this notion, we offer “family tables” that seat up to 15 diners. These communal spaces allow residents to spark new friendships and deepen existing bonds. Family tables are particularly impactful for anyone who is hesitant to initiate social interactions on their own. Fostering inclusivity and interaction has a lasting positive effect on residents’ happiness and mental health.

Create a unique atmosphere

Residents’ dining experiences are enhanced when the surroundings are inviting, imaginative and celebratory. Leaning into themed nights and special occasion dining establishes a sense of excitement and fun bolstered by custom menus, special decorations and entertainment.

Themed dining can range from a summer barbecue on the patio to cultural nights exploring global cuisine. These events add program variety and an opportunity to engage residents who don’t typically participate in community activities. For dining teams, these events offer opportunities to showcase creativity and culinary talent, further enriching the overall experience.

Prioritize service and team culture

Behind every great dining experience is a dedicated team. In senior living, it’s not enough to hire for culinary skills alone; the focus must be on creating a service culture that emphasizes both talent and heart. Dining teams must understand that their role goes beyond food delivery and prioritize enhancing the resident lives through exceptional service and positive interactions.

It is essential to hire and promote individuals who have the necessary culinary talents and a passion for creating meaningful moments for residents. This is particularly important in senior living, where residents often develop personal relationships with dining staff, making these interactions a vital part of their day.

In short, an exceptional dining program is more than great food — it is experiential in nature. The best modern dining initiatives feed the body, mind and the soul, fueling the fulfilling lifestyles our residents desire.

— Kevin Bunn

Bunn has been with Erickson Senior Living for 12 years, where he currently serves as the vice president of dining services. His culinary experience includes owning three hospitality-focused businesses.  

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