Hiring a personal chef for a senior or an aging parent

How it works for seniors

The chef visits on a set day, usually once a week or every two weeks. They cook in the home, portion the meals into containers, label each one with reheating instructions and clean the kitchen. Between visits, a meal takes a few minutes in the microwave or oven.

What to ask for

Smaller portions. Single servings that are easy to finish.
Containers that open easily and labels in large print.
Simple reheating. One step and one appliance.
Familiar food. The dishes the person has always liked, cooked the way they like them.
Softer textures if chewing or swallowing is difficult.
Diet needs. Low sodium, diabetic-friendly or anything the doctor has asked for. Give the chef the written instructions.

If you are arranging this for a parent

Be at the first consultation, in person or by phone, so the chef hears from both of you.
Agree on who approves menus and who pays.
Ask how the chef will let you know if something seems wrong during a visit.
Tell the chef about memory problems, mobility limits and who else has a key.

What a chef does not do

A personal chef cooks. They are not a caregiver and do not give medication, help with bathing or provide medical care. Many families use a chef alongside home care.

Questions to ask

Have you cooked for older clients before?
Are you comfortable cooking to a doctor’s instructions?
Do you carry liability insurance?
Can we start with one trial visit?

Some chefs and services work only with seniors. Browse your city and look for them by name, or ask any chef whether they take senior clients. For prices, see what a personal chef costs.