Some people develop a swallowing disorder (otherwise known as dysphagia) after another health event. If your loved one has a swallowing disorder, it means you’ll need to make some important changes in his diet to help him stay properly nourished while staying safe during the eating process. You should also consider occupational therapy.
What Causes Dysphagia
Many conditions can lead to a swallowing disorder. It may be as simple as a dry mouth from medication, or it could be more severe when it occurs as a side effect of a stroke or brain tumor. Sometimes, injury to the neck or spinal cord can also lead to dysphagia. It may be a life-long condition or a recent condition for your loved one.
Three Forms of Dysphagia
Swallowing disorders can occur in three parts of the swallowing process.
- In the mouth: Known as the oral stage, problems may occur when trying to suck, chew, or move food to the back of the mouth.
- In the throat: Known as the pharyngeal stage, struggles occur as the person starts to swallow and squeeze food down the throat. It can include the inability to close off the airway to prevent food and liquids from entering the airway.
- In the esophagus: Known as the esophageal phase, problems may occur in the process of getting food down to the stomach. It may become blocked or create acid reflux.
Feeding Your Loved One Safely
When your loved one has a swallowing disorder, how he eats and drinks will need to be reviewed to ensure he can enjoy his food safely. In serious conditions, he may need to be intravenously fed, but for many individuals, especially those who have developed a swallowing issue as a side effect from another condition, there will still be regular foods they can eat. They just need to be prepared and served differently.
The following tips and guidance from occupational therapy providers can help your loved one address their swallowing disorder.
Tips for Safe Meals for Your Loved One with Dysphagia
- Serve soft, moist foods such as scrambled eggs, soups, macaroni and cheese, and cottage cheese.
- Use fluids or sauces to moisten food. Gravy, broth, melted butter, oil, and sour cream can all help food become moister and add flavor.
- Cut food into very small bites. Bites should be no larger than a marble.
- Chew slowly and intentionally. Your loved one should focus on what he is eating and not be distracted.
- Puree foods that cannot be chopped finely.
- Reduce conversations during meals and remind your loved one not to talk with any food in his mouth.
- Have your loved one sit in a well-supported position when he eats. Snacking or eating while reclining on the couch or lying in bed should be avoided.
- Drink fluid between each bite, especially if a dry mouth is the cause of his swallowing disorder.
Occupational Therapy Can Provide Support
Don’t neglect to have an occupational therapy professional trained in swallowing disorders come to the home to help you and your loved one learn how to enjoy meals together safely. A therapy provider may provide occupational therapy that will teach your loved one how to sit while eating, which foods are safest to enjoy, and help you learn how to prepare his food safely. Your occupational therapy provider can help both you and your loved one feel more confident about mealtimes.
If you or someone you know needs Occupational Therapy in Granite Falls, MN, contact Adara Home Health. We provide quality and affordable home care services for many fragile or senior members in the communities we serve. Call us at (888) 525-7742 for more information.