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174 In Pursuit of the Sunbeam: A Practical Guide to Transformation from Institution to Household should not be placed in such a way that it dominates life.
Additionally, it is especially desirable for each household to have other living areas for residents to use for intimate socializing, or for a comfortable quiet space to be alone yet connected to others in a familiar way. Look for opportunities to design small nooks for a couple of chairs, side table and lamp for reading, one-on-one conversations or watching television.
A room for private dining is an attractive house feature for a variety of reasons. When families or friends visit a loved one, they may prefer their own space to eat, celebrate, and converse. It is also a space that allows for other private interactions between residents, families and/or staff. The design and furnishings need to be readily identifiable as a formal or distinct dining room like we would find in any other residence.
The kitchen and dining room are the heart of the home. Mealtime is central to the culture of every household. The dining area should have a warm, comforting appearance that helps contribute to the stimulation of healthy appetites and promotes easy table conversation. The spaces and furnishings should comfortably accommodate resident movement in and out of the dining area at the time of their pleasure, as well as provide adequate space around the table(s) for a sense of private dining and conversation. The extra space required for the accommodation of wheelchairs and walker should also be taken into consideration.
Lighting is a particularly important component of creating a positive dining environment. Natural light, without glare, is generally preferred, and sometimes required by regulation. Appropriate artificial light can also create an environment that will enhance the resident’s intake and independence in dining.
Food preparation in the household kitchen needs to be efficient, safe and most certainly within the regulations and fire codes for the geographic area. Still, it should be close enough to the residents that there is a strong, natural association to a residential pattern of eating. Food that arrives from a remote location may disassociate food preparation and the benefits of experiencing it from the process of having a meal. If offsite preparation is required, explore opportunities to cook or hold foods in the household kitchen in a manner that spreads the stimulating aromas throughout the household. You can also simulate the sensory stimulation with potpourrie or simply boiling cinnamon in water.
Activities centered on food preparation and food service can increase appetite and have positive outcomes for residents that include increased