Caring for a person with Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, ALS, or a related condition is difficult, and the most common complication isn’t on most caregivers’ priority lists. Dysphagia is prevalent among older adults, and it’s an understudied condition that makes it difficult to swallow liquid and food.
Dysphagia also causes drinks and food to enter patients’ lungs, increasing the risk of aspiration pneumonia. All these complications affect caregivers, too, and finding ways to manage the condition will improve quality of life for everyone involved. SimplyThick is on X, and here, the team offers five tips to support those with dysphagia.
Learn the Symptoms
Though over 90% of dementia patients develop swallowing issues, many cases are undiagnosed because of a lack of provider and caregiver education. Knowing the earliest symptoms of dysphagia allows the earlier development of effective treatment plans. Signs may include:
- Coughing and choking when drinking.
- Taking longer than others to finish meals.
- Avoidance of certain foods.
- Sudden, unexplained weight loss.
If the person in your life shows any of these signs, discuss a potential dysphagia diagnosis with their doctor.
Reduce Mealtime Fatigue
Caregivers can help people with dysphagia by reducing mealtime fatigue. Not only does this strategy reduce swallowing difficulties, but it also ensures patients get adequate nutrition and hydration.
It’s best to offer a variety of foods at varying hardnesses and thicknesses, so they can move to softer options as they become fatigued. To increase nutritional intake, be sure to include familiar, likeable foods.
Serve Small Portions
While it’s important for patients to get enough nutrients at each meal, dysphagia can prevent it. At mealtimes, ask them to take smaller bites to prevent choking and aspiration, and consider serving smaller portions throughout the day so they get the nourishment they need.
Set Quality of Life Goals
Dysphagia doesn’t just affect patients at mealtime; it also changes their lives in other ways. From high stress to decreased socialization, swallowing difficulties have widespread effects. As a caregiver, it’s crucial for you to have regular conversations with the person’s friends, family, and doctors about what to focus on when improving their quality of life.
Learn How to React in Emergencies
It’s stressful and frightening to hear your loved one coughing while eating and drinking, but it can be a good sign. Caregivers should learn the differences between choking and coughing; in one case, airflow stops, and in the other, it doesn’t. By learning this crucial distinction and knowing the Heimlich maneuver, you can be prepared for dysphagia-related emergencies.
Fill Your Cup First
While the job of a caregiver is an essential one, it’s just as important for these individuals to care for themselves as it is for them to care for others. If your well-being and health are affected, you won’t be able to provide the level of support your loved one deserves. By filling your cup first and meeting your self-care needs, you can preserve your mental and physical health along with that of the patient.
Follow These Tips to Support Your Loved One With Dysphagia
While dysphagia affects the patient, it also affects their caregivers and families. By following these tips, you can support your loved one and manage their symptoms effectively. Visit SimplyThick on X to learn more about our food and beverage thickening products.
