When I was a young nurse (a long time ago), I worked afternoons on a Medicare unit with approximately 35 residents. The evening meal was often served at the bedside (or in bed) which now I know isn’t the best thing to do! The one thing we did do well, however, we served super foods. Even the coffee was “super” fortified, super mashed potatoes (super spuds), super cereal for breakfast, all kinds of unique, “super-foods” were used to prevent weight loss.

I was surprised to read an article about “fortified, texture-modified” foods (TMD) being used today! In a recent report, researchers found that older adults who experienced stroke and have dysphagia, who were given texture-modified diets in senior care increased daily energy intake by approximately 200 calories a day. A bonus? It also enhanced functional recovery and activities of daily living! What exactly is a “TMD”?

A TMD is when a person regularly consumes texture modified foods and fluids (TMFs) which are meals or drinks that have been prepared in a special way to create a certain texture or consistency. A raw carrot is extremely crunchy and hard, whereas a steamed carrot is much softer. Using a molding powder and molds to form mince and puree foods into recognizable food shapes further enhances the dining experience. The food is mixed in a blender with a powder, poured into molds, refrigerated and served cold or gently heated. Eggs look like eggs, vegetables look like vegetables, etc.! Although this isn’t a “new” idea, it is becoming more popular in post-acute care settings.

There is a ton of information out there to guide your care partners in providing an enhanced dining experience for your residents. One recent report from McKnight’s Long-Term Care News highlights that fortified TMDs improved recovery and energy intake for stroke survivors with dysphagia. A systematic review published on PMC explored how texture-modified diets in senior care also correlate with improved nutritional status and higher mealtime satisfaction. And if you’re looking for hands-on tools, this complete guide by Flavour Creations offers practical tips and examples to get started.

Talk to your SLP and RD, have a “dining experiment” with residents and families. You have nothing to lose but everything to “gain”!

Stay well and stay informed!