Program Structure

Duration

(This depends on the meal being prepared, generally it is most successful to allow resident's to choose the meal and facilitate participation in preparation. Allow between 60 and 120 minutes)

• 15 minutes to gather participants
• 30 for preparation of meal
• 30 minutes cooking
• 15 minutes in clearing area
• 15 minutes return to community

Participants in the Program

Group Size

Four residents per table with a maximum of four tables. If the residents participating are cognitively impaired, a smaller group is recommended.

Selection of Residents

1. Residents with similar communication skills.
2. Ability to utilize both fine and gross motor skills.

Entrance Criteria

1. Resident must be able to assist in meal preparation and participate in the ritual of sharing a meal.

Exit Criteria

1. Resident is no longer able to attend and participate.

Physical Environment and Equipment Needed

1. A quiet private room with no distractions and enough room to place residents in wheelchairs if necessary.
2. Cutting boards for residents.
3. Appropriate knives.
4. Ingredients of meal being prepared.
5. Grill for preparing main course.
6. Hot plate or if possible stove for preparation of soup.
7. Plates, cutlery, napkins and placemats.

Staff Requirements

1. One program facilitator with one additional staff member to act as assistant.

Methods

1. Appoint a facilitator to learn the program, set it up and be available as a contact person for the participants in the program.
2. Train interested staff about how to participate in the program.
3. Set up a schedule for the intervention.
4. Arrange for a location that is comfortable and private.
5. Inform staff of the time, place and frequency of the intervention to allow them to have the appropriate residents ready for the intervention.