Improving the quality of life of aged care residents through the joy of food: The Lantern Project.

OBJECTIVE: Mealtimes directly impact the quality of life of residents in aged care. The objective of The Lantern Project is to improve the dining experience of aged care residents to reduce malnutrition risk through improving dietary intake, meal.

METHODS: A transdisciplinary team of aged care professionals and resident advocates was formed as a collaboration collectively known as The Lantern Project.

RESULTS: This paper outlines the journey and timeline of The Lantern Project collaboration since its inception and the interplay between the monthly stakeholder meetings and inter-related research projects demonstrating improved outcomes.

CONCLUSION: Transdisciplinary collaboration offers well-grounded benefits and realistic strategies sensitive to the complexity of the aged care setting.