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Photo, left to right: Kelsey Johnson and Kimberly Shaheen

Registered dietitians help the people they work with by providing nutrition advice, addressing nutritional imbalances, and teaching healthy eating habits.

To learn more about dietitians and their role in long term care, we spoke with two of Saber Healthcare’s dietitians: Kelsey Johnson and Kimberly Shaheen.

Kelsey Johnson is a Clinical Dietitian who rotates between three long term care communities in North Carolina: Autumn Care of Salisbury, Davie Nursing and Rehab, and Village Care of King.

Kimberly Shaheen is a dietitian who works between two different long term care communities in Ohio: Diplomat Healthcare and Seven Hills Health & Rehab.

Both Johnson and Shaheen shared their story and how they help residents achieve their nutritional goals.

How Did You Become a Registered Dietitian?

To learn how Johnson and Shaheen got to where they are today, we wanted to know how they decided to become a dietitian. They told us their story as well as what is required to become a registered dietitian.

“I started working at a farmer’s market in high school and made a connection between nutrients, food, and how it affects your body,” Johnson said. “I realized I loved food and how it affects you, and there was no other topic I was interested in.”

“In college, I started exercising more and trying to eat better. I was successful at it,” Shaheen shared. “I didn’t like the field I was in, so I switched to dietetics. I found that I enjoyed helping others learn how to eat healthier.”

To become a registered dietitian, Johnson and Shaheen told us that a bachelor’s degree is required. A master’s degree is now a requirement for registered dieticians in the industry today. Then, you must complete an internship and pass your exam to become a registered dietitian.

What Does a Day as a Registered Dietitian Look Like?

Shaheen and Johnson both told us that a normal day consists of checking for new admissions and visiting residents.

“Visiting the residents gives me a sense of how they’re handling their diet and how they like their food,” Shaheen stated. “We can make sure they’re getting food they like and that they’re able to tolerate it.” Shaheen added that if there are any significant details that need to be discussed with the interdisciplinary team, she will go ahead and discuss any concerns that come up.

“When we visit residents, we see how they’re doing. If there’s any weight loss or change in food preferences, we make sure they’re feeling well,” Johnson said.

Johnson mentioned the dietary department needs to keep track of new admissions regarding any medical procedures and weight loss issues. Their assessment will determine what kind of diet those residents need or can handle.

What is Your Favorite Part About Being a Dietitian?

Johnson and Shaheen both agreed that their favorite part about their job is the residents they get to work with.

“They’re so funny and I just love to see the residents. They have the best stories,” Johnson shared.

“I like talking to the residents and helping them. I like meeting new people and being able to provide them with what they need,” Shaheen said. Shaheen added she loves that Saber Healthcare has regional dietitians that she can reach out to whenever she has questions or concerns.

What Advice Do You Have for Aspiring Dietitians?

We asked Johnson and Shaheen for their best advice for anyone who is aspiring to become a registered dietitian.

“Getting through school, completing an internship, and taking the exam is the hardest part,” Johnson said. “Once you have your license, you can really find your niche.”

“I would tell them to make sure their undergraduate grades are solid because they have to apply to get their master’s. Internships are also required, and good grades can help you find a program,” Shaheen stated. “There’s a better chance with all of that when you have good grades.”

What Nutritional Advice Do You Have?

Because registered dietitians are a great source for nutritional advice, we asked Shaheen and Johnson to share what they know about food.

“Stay away from fad diets,” Shaheen discussed. “My advice is portion control. You can have things you like in moderation, and make sure you exercise as well.”

“Never underestimate the power of snacks! It’s a good practice to eat every two hours,” Johnson shared. “Make sure to have snacks so you’re never left hungry.”

Saber Healthcare Appreciates Our Dietitians

Dietitians play a huge role in the health and wellbeing of our residents. Thank you, Johnson and Shaheen, and all our other dietitians, for the work you do each and every day.

Join us in celebrating Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Day and National Nutrition Month all month long! If you’re interested in learning more about Saber Healthcare and the services we provide, click here.

Saber Healthcare is an organization dedicated to providing consultant services to long term care providers. This article is for informational purposes and is not meant to be seen as professional advice. Please consult with a medical expert before relying on the information provided.