The Deep Seated Issue of Choice

February
2010
The Deep Seated Issue of Choice
Linda Bump, MPH RD LNHA
This paper addresses the issue of resident self-determination through a focus on the dining experience. Its contents have been shaped through 35 years of personal and professional advocacy for resident self-determination and quality dining experiences. However, the collective passion, vast knowledge and rich experiences of pioneers in culture change from around the country shared in this paper shed a bright light on the challenges and possibilities of the topic. It is the author’s hope that this piece will provoke a sense of urgency for the need to honor elder self-determination in dining and ultimately, all aspects of their lives through increased regulatory support, collaboration of all stake holders and actions to remove the varied barriers to this goal.
Prepared for Creating Home in the Nursing Home – A National Symposium on Culture Change and the Food and Dining Requirements Co-sponsoredbyCentersforMedicare& MedicaidServices(CMS)andPioneerNetwork February 11, 2010, Baltimore, MD