Which action is appropriate when assisting a visually impaired resident during meals?

• A. Move the plate to the opposite side without telling
• B. Describe the plate setup to the resident, offer to position plate and utensils, use nondisruptive lighting, use textured or finger foods if appropriate; speak before touching
• C. Use loud, rapid instructions during meals
• D. Avoid describing textures

Answer: (B)

Assisting a visually impaired resident during meals centers on orientation and clear communication to support safety and independence. Describe the plate setup before starting to eat so the resident knows where each item is, what foods are present, where the utensils lie, and where the plate edges are. This helps the resident feed themselves with less confusion and fewer spills. Offer to position the plate and utensils to fit the resident’s reach and preference, and adjust lighting in a nondisruptive way to improve visibility without glare or shadows. Use textured or finger foods if appropriate, which provides tactile cues that aid identification and safe eating. Always speak before touching or moving anything so the resident knows what will happen and can consent to assistance. These steps promote dignity, autonomy, and safety at mealtimes. Describing textures and providing sensory cues enhances the resident’s ability to understand and enjoy their meal, while moving or speaking inappropriately without notice can cause confusion or distress, and rushing or giving no sensory information can hinder safe eating.