When it comes to aging well, food and eating rituals are considered especially important. The average age of Yee Hong’s long-term care residents is about 90. As individuals age, and particularly for individuals with dementia, eating culturally appropriate foods that they recognize and enjoy supports mental well-being, promotes joy and creates a sense of belonging and comfort.
Food is often associated with the holidays. At McNicoll Centre, our residents celebrated Chinese New Year with delicious, traditional meals. On Chinese New Year’s Eve, residents enjoyed Yee Hong Double Happiness Fin and Braised Abalone with Fish Maw. These dishes symbolize happiness and prosperity.
On Chinese New Year day, residents enjoyed many auspicious dishes and snacks, such as Chicken and Lobster E-Fu Noodles for longevity, and deep-fried smiley balls for happiness.
In addition to Chinese New Year, our Food Service and Activation departments collaborate to launch festive menus on other major holidays from various cultures year-round. In the coming months, we have special food days planned around Italian, Korean and Thai cuisine, to name a few. There’s something for everyone at Yee Hong!
