IN THIS ISSUE:
- National Dysphagia Month
- Spotlight on Caregivers
- Featured Recipe: Fruit and Veggie Smoothie
- News from MOWWM
FEATURED STORY: Caregivers and dysphagia MONTH
Caregivers can help ease the symptoms of dysphagia through lifestyle changes, such as offering smaller, more frequent meals; cutting food into smaller pieces and encouraging care recipients to eat slowly and chew food thoroughly; and experimenting with foods with different textures. It’s also important to avoid foods that cause trouble swallowing; avoid straws; and avoid triggers that may exacerbate heartburn, such as alcohol, tobacco and caffeine. As thin liquids may cause aspiration, thickened beverages are a safer choice. And because many dysphagia patients struggle with meeting their nutritional needs, the best dysphagia diets incorporate plenty of nutrient-dense whole foods. It is also helpful for dysphagia patients to eat and drink while sitting up, which lets food go down better. Keep in mind that swallowing food and drink correctly is harder when older adults are tired, so serve meals when the patient is most alert and keep mealtimes short. While dysphagia can’t be cured, caregivers who adopt these techniques can help keep aging loved ones with the condition as comfortable as possible. Lastly, remember that your loved one may receive pureed meals from Meals On Wheels to help meet their nutritional needs and help caregivers with preparing foods that are safe for seniors with dysphagia.
Find more information by downloading the full guide!
