Nutrition and Hydration in Aged Care: Best Practices

Are you worried that your parent or loved one isn’t eating or drinking enough? You’re not alone. Nutrition and hydration in aged care are two of the biggest concerns for families across Australia, and for good reason. A landmark study from Monash and Griffith Universities found that four in ten aged care residents are malnourished, with the Australian Government estimating the cost of this crisis at roughly $9 billion each year. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best practices for keeping older Australians well-nourished and hydrated, whether they’re living in residential care or at home with support.

Why Nutrition and Hydration Matter More as We Age

It’s a common myth that older people need less food. In reality, the opposite is often true for certain nutrients. Australian Government healthy eating guidelines explain that as we get older and often become less active, we may need fewer kilojoules overall, but we still require a similar amount of vitamins and minerals, and in some cases even more. Protein, calcium and vitamin D requirements actually increase in adults over 70.

When nutrition and hydration fall short, the effects can be serious. Dietitians Australia notes that inadequate intake can lead to muscle wasting, a weakened immune system, slower wound healing and a higher risk of falls and fractures. For older Australians receiving aged care, good nutrition isn’t simply about maintaining weight, it’s about preserving independence, dignity and quality of life.

Key Nutritional Needs for Older Australians

As we age, we often need less energy but more nutrients. Focusing on protein and key vitamins and minerals helps older Australians stay strong, mobile and healthy.

Protein: the Foundation of Healthy Ageing

Protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass, supporting the immune system and helping the body repair itself. According to Healthdirect Australia, adults over 70 need more protein than younger people. The recommended daily intake rises to 81g per day for men and 57g per day for women over 70. Spreading protein across breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks gives the body the best chance of using it effectively.

The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission’s protein guidelines recommend starting meals with the protein portion first, as appetite can fade quickly. A palm-sized serving of cooked lean meat provides roughly 20–30g of protein. High-protein snacks between meals,  such as yoghurt, cheese and flavoured milk, can help bridge any gaps.

Our high-protein meals make it easy to meet daily targets, with generous servings of quality protein paired with vegetables for a balanced plate, including:

• Butter Chicken with Basmati Rice: Tender chicken in a mild, aromatic sauce served with fluffy basmati rice, ideal for those who prefer softer, easy-to-eat meals.

• Cottage Pie: Savoury mince topped with creamy mashed potato and vegetables, offering a comforting, protein-rich option that is gentle on the palate.

Vitamins and Minerals That Deserve Extra Attention

Beyond protein, several micronutrients play a vital role in healthy ageing. The Australian Dietary Guidelines highlight these nutrients as particularly important for older adults:

• Calcium and vitamin D: Essential for bone strength and reducing fracture risk. Dairy foods, fortified alternatives and safe sun exposure all contribute.
• Iron: Supports red blood cell production and energy levels. Lean red meat, legumes and leafy greens are excellent sources.
• B vitamins (especially B12 and B2): Important for nerve function, energy metabolism and cognitive health. These are found in meat, eggs, dairy and fortified cereals.
• Fibre: Supports digestive health and regularity. Aim for 25–30g daily through vegetables, legumes and whole grains.
• Zinc: Aids immune function and wound healing. Found in meat, shellfish and seeds.

Hydration: the Often-Overlooked Essential

Staying hydrated is just as important as eating well. For older Australians, even mild dehydration can affect energy, mood and thinking, and can quickly lead to more serious health issues.

Why Older Adults Face Greater Dehydration Risk

Dehydration is one of the most common, yet preventable, health risks for older Australians. The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission warns that older people are at increased risk because their sense of thirst naturally diminishes with age. Some may also restrict fluid intake to avoid frequent trips to the bathroom, while others simply forget to drink throughout the day.

Signs of dehydration to watch for include dry or cracked lips, darker urine, reduced urine output, increased confusion and unusual drowsiness. Nutrition experts at Eat Well Nutrition note that, in aged care settings, a practical minimum daily fluid target for adequate hydration is around 1,500 to 2,000 ml, which is roughly six to eight glasses. Australian guidelines also suggest that, where possible, older adults should aim for about eight to ten cups of fluid a day (around 2.1 to 2.6 litres), adjusted for individual medical advice and conditions such as heart or kidney disease.

Practical Tips to Encourage Better Hydration

Keeping older adults well-hydrated doesn’t have to be a battle. Here are some practical strategies that families and carers can adopt:

• Keep drinks within easy reach at all times, including overnight. Use lightweight cups, squeeze bottles or cups with handles.
• Offer a variety of fluids throughout the day. Water is great, but tea, coffee, milk, juice, cordial and soup all count towards daily fluid intake.
• Pair fluids with routine activities by offering a drink before and after showering, after toileting, with medications and during activities.
• Use prompting rather than asking. Saying “I’d like you to have a drink now” is more effective than “Would you like something to drink?”
• Make drinks appealing by adding fresh fruit to water, offering milkshakes or smoothies, or serving drinks at the person’s preferred temperature.

Remember that fluids with nutritional value, such as milk, soup and smoothies, can do double duty by supporting both hydration and calorie intake. 

Our chef-prepared meals, such as our Roast Pumpkin and Pork Hock Soup, provide both nourishment and fluid in a single, warming serve.

Best Practices for Nutrition in Aged Care Settings

Supporting good nutrition in aged care is about more than just what is on the plate. The right systems, environment and menu choices can make it easier for older adults to eat well every day.

Mealtime Environment and Choice

The Australian Government’s strengthened Quality Standards now include a dedicated food and nutrition standard (Standard 6) requiring aged care providers to deliver nutritious, appetising and safe food that meets each person’s individual needs and preferences. This standard, which came into effect in November 2025, also recognises that the experience of dining matters just as much as the food itself.

Choice is one of the biggest drivers of better food intake in aged care. When older adults can pick what they’d like to eat, rather than being presented with a single option, they’re more likely to eat enough. A pleasant, unhurried dining environment also makes a real difference.

Regular Screening and Monitoring

Early identification of malnutrition risk is critical. The Victorian Department of Health recommends that people over 65 be screened for malnutrition within 24 hours of admission and at regular intervals throughout their hospital stay. The 2021 Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety found that the residential aged care sector had ‘failed to meet the nutritional needs of people for whom they care’ and identified improving nutrition as a priority area for immediate attention.

Key indicators to monitor include unplanned weight loss, changes in appetite, difficulty chewing or swallowing, and signs of dehydration. If you notice these signs in a loved one, speaking with their GP or an Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) can help establish a tailored nutrition plan.

Soft-Texture and Easy-to-Eat Options

Many older Australians face challenges with chewing and swallowing (known as dysphagia), which can significantly reduce food intake. The good news is that soft-textured meals don’t have to be bland or boring. Our guide to soft meals for elderly Australians highlights how meals with naturally soft textures, like slow-cooked stews, creamy curries and soups, can deliver outstanding flavour alongside essential nutrients.

Our soft-textured meals make it easier for older adults to enjoy enough food and protein, including:

• Chicken Masala with Basmati Rice: Tender chicken in a rich, aromatic sauce served with soft basmati rice, requiring minimal chewing.

• De-Constructed Shepherd’s Pie: A soft, comforting option with quality protein and vegetables, ideal for those who find traditional roasts or firmer textures difficult to manage.

Nutrition at Home: Supporting Older Australians Living Independently

Not all older Australians live in residential care. Many receive support at home through Home Care Packages or the Commonwealth Home Support Programme. For those ageing at home, maintaining good nutrition can be especially challenging when cooking becomes difficult due to arthritis, fatigue, reduced mobility or cognitive changes.

Meal Delivery Support at Home

This is where a meal delivery service for the elderly can play a valuable role. Having chef-prepared, nutritionist-approved meals delivered directly to the door removes the daily burden of shopping, preparing and cooking, while ensuring that every meal is balanced, nutritious and genuinely delicious.

At Nourish’d, all of our meals are 100% gluten free, endorsed by Coeliac Australia, and completely preservative-free. They’re delivered fresh (never frozen), and many of our customers access them through their Home Care Package, with co-payments as low as approximately $4.20 per meal. You can also explore our full range of easy meals for elderly to reheat for more practical tips.

Nourish’d Meals That Support Aged Care Nutrition

Every Nourish’d meal is crafted by professional chefs and reviewed by our in-house Accredited Dietitian to make sure it delivers real nutritional value. Here are some of our meals that are particularly well-suited for older Australians:

• Lasagne with Beef & Pumpkin: A comforting, layered bake with tender beef, pumpkin and pasta, offering a soft texture and a balanced mix of protein and vegetables in one serve.

• Beef Bourguignon with White Potato Mash: Slow-cooked beef in a rich, savoury sauce, served with smooth potato mash for an easily chewable, nutrient-dense option.

• Satay Chicken with Basmati Rice: Tender chicken in a creamy satay sauce with fluffy basmati rice, providing satisfying protein and carbohydrates in a mild, easy-to-enjoy meal.

• Pumpkin Risotto: A creamy, naturally soft risotto featuring pumpkin, ideal for lighter appetites and those who prefer a vegetarian-style option.

• Savoury Mince with Baba Ganoush: Flavoursome mince paired with smooth baba ganoush, combining protein, fibre and healthy fats in a soft, easy-to-eat combination.

You can browse our full menu on the Nourish’d website and filter by dietary need, including: 

• Dairy free 
• Low-calorie 
• Low-carb

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Nourish’d meals suitable for people with coeliac disease?

Every single meal on our menu is 100% gluten free and endorsed by Coeliac Australia. We follow a rigorous Allergen Plan developed in collaboration with Coeliac Australia, so you can eat with complete peace of mind.

Can I access Nourish’d meals through a Home Care Package?

Yes! Many Home Care Package recipients access Nourish’d meals as part of their plan. Co-payments can be as low as approximately $4.20 per meal. Visit our Home Care Package meals page to check your eligibility or book an exploration call with our team.

How many servings of protein should older adults eat each day?

The Australian Dietary Guidelines recommend that adults over 70 consume around 1g of protein per kilogram of body weight per day. This is higher than in younger adults, reflecting the increased need for tissue repair and muscle maintenance. Spreading protein intake across meals and snacks throughout the day helps the body absorb and use it most effectively.

How much water should an elderly person drink each day?

Most older adults should aim for at least 1,500–2,000ml (roughly six to eight glasses) of fluid daily. This includes water, tea, coffee, milk, soup and other beverages. People with specific medical conditions may need different amounts, so it’s worth checking with a GP or dietitian for personalised advice.

What are the signs of malnutrition in aged care?

Common signs include unplanned weight loss, fatigue, poor wound healing, frequent infections, confusion and a noticeable decline in physical strength. Dietitians Australia emphasises that some symptoms can be mistaken for normal signs of ageing, so regular screening by a health professional is important.

What if my loved one has difficulty chewing or swallowing?

We offer a range of naturally soft-textured meals, including soups, curries and slow-cooked stews, that require minimal chewing. Our guide to soft meals for elderly Australians covers our best options in detail.

Nourishing the People Who’ve Nourished Us

Good nutrition and hydration in aged care aren’t luxuries, they’re the foundation of comfort, health and independence for the people who’ve spent a lifetime looking after us. Whether your loved one is in residential care or ageing at home, small changes to how food and fluids are offered can make a real difference. With fresh, chef-prepared meals delivered to the door, you can feel confident that the people you care about are getting the nourishment they deserve.