The Benefits of Drinking Decaf Coffee in Care Homes: A Simple Change with Big Impacts

Decaf drinks in care homes

Who would have thought that something as simple as switching to decaffeinated drinks in care homes could make such a difference?

Care homes across the UK are increasingly recognising the benefits of switching to decaffeinated drinks, a move that could have profound effects on both residents’ health and wellbeing. A recent trial with the NHS*, conducted across eight care homes found a 35% drop in falls related to residents rushing to the bathroom, particularly at night. Falls are a major concern in care homes and are the leading cause of injury-related deaths among older people.

Why does drinking decaf make a difference?

So why does decaf make such a difference? As we age, we may become more sensitive to the effects of caffeine which can make going to the loo more urgent, increasing the risk of falls, particularly at night. By reducing that urgency, switching to decaf can help prevent hurried trips to the bathroom, which in turn means fewer falls.  With many residents in care homes being particularly vulnerable due to frailty and incontinence, this simple dietary change could offer a substantial improvement in their safety and well-being.

Benefit of decaf coffee and other drinks 

The benefits of switching to decaf extend beyond just fewer falls. If switching to decaf as a default for residents was implemented across the care home sector, it is estimated that the NHS could save up to £85 million annually in costs associated with fall- related injuries, and hospital admissions. However, it isn’t just about costs for the NHS. More importantly, residents experience fewer falls and fewer serious falls related injuries.

The trial also shows that residents were supportive of the switch, with about 90% choosing to stick with decaf once they knew it could help keep them safe, and they didn’t notice a difference in taste.

Sometimes, it’s the small changes that can have the biggest impact. Swapping out caffeinated drinks for decaf is simple, cost effective and most importantly, a big step in further protecting the health and safety of residents.

Data behind drinking alternatives to tea and coffee and other caffeinated drinks

The study undertaken by Care England along with University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust replaced resident’s usual hot drinks with decaffeinated versions and found that falls relating to going to the loo subsequently decreased by 34.72%.

Is decaf a good alternative to my normal hot drink?

Most residents participating in the NHS/Care England study didn’t notice a big difference in taste and continued with their choice after the study finished. Although the decaffeinated drinks are offered as the default option, all residents are given the choice and are able to switch back to their caffeinated option if they wish.

Drinks on offer at Four Seasons and brighterkind care homes

At Four Seasons Health Care Group, residents can enjoy a range of decaffeinated alternatives to their usual tea and coffee.  In addition to decaf versions of traditional hot drinks, the Group also offers milky drinks such as hot chocolate and malt based drinks. However the Group’s care homes also offer tea infusions, smoothies and other cold drinks if this is what works for residents.

The group is currently running a ‘Going decaf can reduce falls’ initiative amongst its homes to encourage residents to choose decaf first.  Residents have the option to choose decaf and switch back if they prefer their usual beverage. It’s all about choice, but the Group is aiming to encourage a switch to decaf to reduce falls and injuries relating to falls.  Would you make the switch?

Read more about  Four Seasons and brighterkind Food and Dining.

*For more detailed information on the NHS trial and its findings, you can read the full reports and articles here