Our Stories

Juniper brings fresh food market to residential aged care homes

22 Aug 2024

Residential Care

Juniper has launched a fresh produce market stall in a residential aged care home, setting a new standard for aged care nutrition. This innovative initiative is part of Juniper’s broader Dignity In Nutritional Excellence (DINE) program, which focuses on providing high-quality, nutritious meals tailored to the individual needs of its customers.

Customers and their guests were treated to a display of fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables from Fresh Frontier. The display showcased the currently in-season produce, and the quality ingredients used in their daily meals.

In addition to the selection of fresh fruit and vegetables, the market stall also featured an interactive experience where residents could try fresh juice and smoothies. This activity was designed to ensure inclusivity, with texture-modified options available so that all residents, regardless of dietary requirements, could participate and enjoy the fresh offerings.

Juniper Hospitality Services Manager, Kirrie Hall, explained that the fresh food market was designed to foster social interaction among residents while promoting healthy living.

“We invited residents from Juniper’s nearby homes to join in, making it a shared experience. Our goal was to create an event that not only connects our customers with the food they eat but also fosters a sense of community and well-being. These markets are about more than just fresh food—they’re about engaging with life and each other,” said Kirrie.

Customers were also able to select from a variety of fruits, including red and Granny Smith apples, bananas, oranges, kiwis, lemons, and pears, to take back to their rooms and create personalised fruit bowls.

Dawn Murchison, Managing Director of Fresh Frontier, expressed her support for the DINE program at Juniper.

“We are thrilled to be part of this initiative. We understand the critical importance of nutrition in aged care and are committed to providing the freshest, most nourishing Australian-grown produce. Our aging population deserves the best.”

The event was a communal celebration, with customers from Juniper Cygnet residential aged care home joining those from Annesley.

“At Juniper, we believe that food is a vital part of life’s enjoyment and well-being. Our meals are designed to be as nourishing as they are delicious, offering a wide range of choices at every meal,” added Kirrie.

Following the success of this event, Juniper already has plans to trial the initiative at other residential aged care homes.

Acknowledgement of Country

Juniper acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the Lands on which our services operate throughout Western Australia. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging. We are committed to walking alongside all Aboriginal people on our journey of reconciliation.

Learn More