A new survey of 1,000 UK care homes has shown a 24 per cent rise over the past decade in vegan and vegetarian residents, with nearly one in three care homes (31.8 per cent) now catering to at least one veg*n (vegetarian/vegan) resident.
According to charity Vegetarian for Life, which works on behalf of older vegans and vegetarians, these figures spotlight a growing trend among older adults and highlight the need for adaptable care homes as the plant-based lifestyle becomes more mainstream.
With over 8,000 vegan and vegetarian residents in care homes this year – up from just over 6,500 in 2014 – the survey’s results have implications beyond the vegan community.
Key findings of the survey include:
- 8,088 vegan and vegetarian residents in 2024 – up from 6,511 in 2014 and 7,014 in 2019.
- 31.8 per cent of care homes now serve veg*n residents – a 39 per cent increase in ten years.
- 41.8 per cent of nursing homes serve veg*n residents – with a notable 56 per cent increase since 2014, particularly in facilities providing more intensive care.
The shift suggests broader changes in the way society views aging and nutrition. Many older adults are embracing plant-based diets as part of a lifelong commitment to health and ethical living.
In response to this trend, Vegetarian for Life has launched Gourmet Vegan, a guide designed to elevate vegan dining standards in care homes, demonstrating that nutritious, ethical eating can also be a fine dining experience. The guide was launched recently at Vegetarian for Life’s 2024 Awards for Excellence held in the Houses of Parliament.
Amanda Woodvine, chief executive of Vegetarian for Life, said: “The move towards plant-based diets isn’t just for younger generations. We’re seeing more people in later life adopting vegan and vegetarian lifestyles for ethical, environmental, and health reasons.
“Care homes across the UK need to respond to these preferences, both to meet current demand and to prepare for a future where dietary choice is central to individual care. We’re proud to celebrate those who are raising the bar in care catering. This includes hospitals, care homes, and catering teams that are responding to the changing tastes and ethical choices of today’s aging population.”
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Matt Seex, Editor
