Supporting Elderly Nutrition and Wellbeing

In the UK, older adults have several options when it comes to eating well at home, ranging from meal delivery services to support with shopping and cooking. Here are some of the most common solutions:

• Hot Meal Delivery (e.g. Meals on Wheels) – Many local councils and charities offer hot meal delivery services for elderly individuals who struggle to cook.
• Frozen & Chilled Meal Delivery (e.g. Wiltshire Farm Foods, Oakhouse Foods) – Ready-made meals tailored to older adults, often catering to dietary needs like low salt, diabetic-friendly, or soft-textured options.

• Supermarket Home Delivery – Many supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Asda, offer home delivery, often with priority slots for elderly and vulnerable customers.
• Volunteer Shopping Services (e.g. Age UK, local community groups) – Some charities and local groups help with grocery shopping for those who find it difficult to get out.
• Meal Kit Services (e.g. Gousto, HelloFresh) – While less common for elderly customers, these provide fresh ingredients with easy-to-follow recipes for those who still enjoy cooking but want convenience.

• Lunch Clubs & Community Cafés – Many churches, charities, and local councils run lunch clubs offering affordable, home-cooked meals with social interaction.
• Day Centres – Some centres provide meals alongside activities, helping older adults stay engaged and well-fed.

• Home Care Services (e.g. Home Instead, Bluebird Care) – Carers can assist with meal preparation for those who need extra support at home.
• Personal Chef Services – Some private chefs or catering services specialise in cooking for elderly clients with specific dietary needs.

With so many options available, older adults can find a solution that suits their needs, whether they want full independence or a little extra help with meals.