CareLocal | Caring for Dublin's Older People Living Alone

Plate Pals

Making mealtimes productive!

Plate Pals is a new volunteer programme that assists older people in hospital during mealtimes.

Poor appetite and difficulty with eating and drinking are problems for many older people in hospital, and poor nutrition can lead to a delayed recovery.

Research has shown:

• Most older people are at risk of unintentionally losing weight. This loss of weight can cause them to be weak and ill.

• For older people‚ missed meals in hospital can be as big a risk to safety as missing medication.  We must ensure that nutrition is prioritised alongside other issues affecting the safety and treatment of patients.

• Encouragement can make a big difference, and may be sufficient to help an older person enjoy their meal.

Programme Launch

Plate Pals began in May 2009 at St. Mary’s Hospital, Phoenix Park.  As the programme grows, Plate Pals will spread to other Dublin area hospitals and throughout Ireland.

Get Involved!

CareLocal is seeking volunteers for Plate Pals.   Help us to grow our programme into a national initiative!

Training sessions are conducted for all volunteers and support materials are provided.

Volunteers can offer assistance at mealtimes by being involved and helping with a number of simple tasks, including:

• Encouraging persons to eat

• Moving food trays within easy reach

• Opening drinks and food packaging

• Cutting food into smaller pieces

• Seek help to position the patient properly in their chair

• Ensuring food given is warm and edible to the patient, i.e. proper food type, consistency.

• Chat and observe, and report any changes to staff.

What Type of Commitment is Required?

Volunteers are asked to assist with one meal per week, as arranged around your schedule.

Volunteers will meet one-on-one with their older person, providing consistency and allowing the opportunity to befriend.

Available volunteer opportunities:

• St. Mary's Hospital, Phoenix Park, Chapelizod Gate
• Claremont Nursing Home, Glasnevin
• Cuan Ros Nursing Home, Navan Road

If you would like to volunteer to become a Plate Pal please call (01) 612 8000 or email info@carelocal.ie