Action Guides for Collective Support

In 2024, ONCA France is taking significant strides to combat malnutrition with the design and drafting of three comprehensive action guides. These guides are tailored to meet the specific needs of various groups involved in the fight against malnutrition, including collective catering staff, caregivers, and cancer patients. By providing actionable resources, ONCA aims to enhance awareness, knowledge, and practical strategies for addressing malnutrition across different sectors of society.

1. Action Guide for Collective Catering and CCAS Staff

The first guide focuses on collective catering—a critical area in ensuring that vulnerable populations receive nutritious meals. This guide is designed to support the staff of CCAS (Centres Communaux d’Action Sociale) in implementing effective awareness-raising actions about malnutrition.

Key elements of the guide will include:

• Nutritional standards: Information on creating balanced meal plans that cater to the dietary needs of the elderly and other at-risk groups.
• Training resources: Practical training modules to educate catering staff on recognizing signs of malnutrition and the importance of nutritional care.
• Community engagement: Strategies for involving the community in awareness campaigns, encouraging conversations around nutrition, and fostering a supportive environment for those at risk.

2. Action Guide for Caregivers

The second guide will be dedicated to caregivers, a vital link in the care chain for those at risk of undernutrition. Caregivers often play a crucial role in monitoring the health and well-being of the individuals they support.

This guide will offer:

• Practical tips: Guidance on how to encourage proper nutrition and meal planning for those in their care.
• Resources for communication: Tools to help caregivers effectively communicate the importance of nutrition to family members and the individuals they assist.
• Support networks: Information on connecting with local resources and networks for additional support and training on nutritional care.

3. Action Guide for Professionals and Cancer Patients

The final guide is specifically designed for healthcare professionals and cancer patients, recognizing that undernutrition is a significant concern for individuals undergoing cancer treatment.

This guide will include:

• Tailored nutritional advice: Specific recommendations for managing dietary needs during treatment, helping to mitigate the effects of malnutrition.
• Monitoring tools: A weight monitoring booklet to track changes in weight and nutritional intake, helping patients and healthcare providers make informed decisions.
• Collaborative care strategies: Insights into how healthcare professionals can work together with patients to develop personalized nutrition plans that address individual needs and preferences.

The Importance of These Guides

Malnutrition remains a pressing issue that can lead to serious health complications, particularly for vulnerable populations like the elderly and cancer patients. By creating these action guides, ONCA France is committed to raising awareness and providing practical resources to combat malnutrition at various levels.

These guides not only aim to educate and empower those directly involved in care but also foster a collaborative approach to tackling malnutrition. By equipping caregivers, catering staff, and healthcare professionals with the tools they need, ONCA is taking meaningful steps toward improving nutritional health across the board.

How to Access the Guides

The action guides will be made available through ONCA France’s official website and other relevant platforms. Stay tuned for announcements on their release, as well as upcoming training sessions and workshops designed to support the implementation of the strategies outlined in these guides.