Dementia, a group of conditions affecting memory, thinking, and behaviour, can also impact a person's ability to swallow safely, a condition known as dysphagia. This can make mealtimes challenging and frustrating for both the person with dementia and their caregiver.

Dementia affects the brain, including areas responsible for coordinating muscle movements involved in swallowing. This can lead to several issues:

• Muscle Weakness: Weakened muscles in the mouth and throat can make it difficult to properly chew and move food into the swallowing position.
• Cognitive Decline: Difficulty remembering or following swallowing steps can disrupt the natural swallowing sequence.
• Loss of Coordination: Impaired coordination between the brain and the muscles involved in swallowing can lead to aspiration, where food or liquids enter the lungs instead of the stomach.

Signs of Dysphagia in Dementia:

• Difficulty chewing or holding food in the mouth
• Coughing or choking during meals
• Frequent drooling
• Wet voice after swallowing
• Unexplained weight loss

Managing Dysphagia with Dementia:

If you suspect dysphagia in someone with dementia, consulting a doctor and Speech Therapist is crucial. Here are some strategies that can help:

• Thicken Liquids: Speech Therapists can recommend thickeners for beverages and pureed foods to create a safer consistency for swallowing.
• Dietary Modifications: Soft, easy-to-swallow foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, and cooked vegetables are easier to manage.
• Swallowing Exercises: A speech therapist may recommend specific exercises to strengthen the muscles involved in swallowing.
• Positioning Techniques: Proper head and neck positioning during meals can improve swallowing efficiency.
• Communication and Patience: Maintaining a calm and encouraging environment during mealtimes is vital. Break down instructions into small steps and offer verbal cues.

Additional Tips:

• Involve a Speech Therapist: A speech therapist can assess swallowing function and recommend personalised strategies for safe eating and drinking.
• Focus on Hydration: Dehydration is a common concern with dysphagia. Consider thickened fluids or creative ways to incorporate fluids into purees.
• Prioritise Safety: If swallowing difficulties are severe, pureed meals might be necessary.

Living with Dementia and Dysphagia

While dysphagia can be a daily challenge, with proper management and support, individuals with dementia can still enjoy safe and satisfying meals. Remember, communication, patience, and seeking professional guidance are key to navigating this journey.

By working together, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and people with dementia can find ways to ensure safe and enjoyable mealtimes, promoting well-being and quality of life.