Serving Up Dignity, Culture, and Connection: Why Dining Matters in Assisted Living
When most families begin exploring senior living or assisted living, they often focus on care levels, safety, and housing. But there’s one essential aspect that can dramatically improve a senior’s physical health, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life: mealtime.
At The Aspenwood Company, we believe that meals are more than nutrition—they’re a time to connect, celebrate, and live life well. That’s why we’re thrilled to spotlight Chef Ignacio “Nach” Jacobo, Director of Dining Services at Village on the Park Denton, who was recently honored as a member of the DISHED Senior Living Dining Innovation Awards Class of 2025.
Why Dining Deserves the Spotlight in Assisted Living
The role of dining in a senior’s daily experience cannot be overstated. In fact:
1 in 2 seniors are at risk of malnutrition, often due to decreased appetite, physical limitations, or social isolation. (NCOA)
Seniors who eat alone are 2.5 times more likely to experience depression than those who eat with others. (Journal of Nutrition Health & Aging)
Regular social meals improve hydration, calorie intake, and nutrient absorption—all critical for maintaining strength and reducing risk of hospitalization.
That’s why a vibrant, person-centered dining program is essential in assisted living communities—and Chef Nach is leading the way.
Elevating the Culinary Experience for Seniors
Chef Nach has transformed dining at by blending innovation with heart. His initiatives include:
Personalized dining—custom birthday meals, cultural dishes, and menu flexibility that honors each resident’s story and preferences.
Seasonal tasting menus and enhanced plating presentation, making every meal a sensory and social experience.
Interactive cooking demonstrations, which invite residents to engage, ask questions, and rediscover joy in food.
From upgraded ingredients to immersive food events, Nach proves that dining in senior living can—and should—be both nourishing and up-lifting.
Innovation Meets Connection
Chef Nach introduced table-side digital ordering to streamline service, reduce wait times, and allow associates more meaningful interactions with residents. This approach improves:
Accuracy in orders and satisfaction
Time efficiency, giving staff more time to connect
Resident autonomy, by enhancing choice and flexibility
His leadership also supports staff satisfaction. Under his guidance, team turnover has decreased and job pride has grown—a testament to his culture of collaboration and care.
“He holds his staff accountable and teaches them to become better every day,” says Wayne Zartman, Director of Sales and Marketing.
Leadership That Nourishes from the Inside Out
At The Aspenwood Company, we understand that mealtimes are among the most social and structured parts of the day for older adults. That’s why we invest in leaders like Chef Nach who make every meal matter.
“Chef Nach’s work goes beyond the plate,” says Heather Tussing, President of The Aspenwood Company. “He’s helping us live out our values—compassion, connection, and excellence—through the experience of food.”
His recognition as a DISHED Senior Living Dining Innovation Award recipient in the Culinary Canvas category reflects not only his talent, but his ability to create moments of joy, dignity, and belonging around the table.
What This Means for Families Considering Assisted Living
When evaluating a senior living or assisted living community for a loved one, ask about:
Dining personalization and cultural inclusivity
Social dining environments that encourage connection
Resident feedback processes and involvement in menu creation
Health-conscious, seasonal, and fresh ingredients
Your loved one deserves a dining experience that’s not only safe and nutritious but joyful and enriching.
Food Is Care. Food Is Connection. Food Is Living Life Well®
In a field where food is often viewed as secondary to care, Chef Nach reminds us that dining is care. When a resident is seen, heard, and celebrated through their meals, they flourish. When staff feel supported and inspired in the kitchen, that joy reaches every table. And when families visit and see loved ones excited about lunch or dressed up for dinner—it’s proof that a community is truly living out its mission.
Written by – Christina O’Leary