Having worked as a staff trainer in the UK elderly care system for 19 years before moving to Malta, I was surprised at some of the comments in the article ‘Elderly want chips’ (August 25). The idea that residents cannot have chips “as they are unhealthy” takes away the person’s right of choice, a key fundamental of good care.

While a ‘healthy option’ should also be available, residents, or their families, should be consulted on their likes and dislikes and this should be reflected in the meals they are offered.

I think the sooner a staff training regime is implemented, the better it will be for people finding themselves in care.