Swallowing Disorders

Managing Dysphagia In The Elderly

Do you have a loved one or someone in your care suffering from chronic pneumonia or choking at meals? This may be a sign of dysphagia, the clinical term used to describe a swallowing disorder. Swallowing Disorders: Managing Dysphagia in the Elderly may provide vital information that can help you keep the relative or person in your care safer at meals. This reference guide was developed by a speech pathologist to assist caregivers, particularly those with an elderly parent or spouse and those caring for aging individuals with chewing and swallowing disorders. It is written in layman's terms with clinical information provided detailed explanations of both normal anatomy and function as well as identifying the signs and symptoms of a chewing and swallowing disorder. Modified diets and safety strategies are discussed as well as information on formal tests that utilize instruments to determine the nature and severity of the swallowing problem. Links to videos and external support sites are provided within the book for further understanding of normal and disordered swallowing as well as how to thicken liquids. This updated second edition includes a list of exercise to address weak or discoordinate muscles. Millions of people suffer from dysphagia, but there are steps you can take to reduce the impact of a chewing and swallowing disorder.