Eating Drinking and Swallowing self-management resource

Eating and drinking are really important to us all not just for nutrition and hydration but also for the patterns of our day, comfort and socialising. People living with dementia may find that they experience changes and difficulties around eating and drinking that impact all of these things. These can include changes to appetite, attention, and their ability to swallow. People may experience subtle changes that do not initially have a big impact but that over time significantly change their relationship with food. People may develop difficulties with the mechanics of eating and drinking and with swallowing as dementia progresses.

This new booklet has been developed by Speech and Language Therapists in NHS Grampian to support people living with dementia and those around them to explain common issues and how to make adjustments that might help. It should be easy for everyone to read. The model is the father of one of our Therapists – Thank you.

This is a self-management resource: this means that it contains information from professionals to help you and those around you solve problems and support you to live well. It is not person specific so not everything will apply to you. There are lots of ideas because we know that everyone is different and what works for one person doesn’t work for another.

The booklet begins with examples of changes that may occur.

And then offers ideas of changes in routines, environment and food that may help.

There are also some ideas for supporters such as family and carers.

What next?

• Have a look at the full booklet – available to read online or download for printing and you can find it on this page of resources www.alzscot.org/ahpresources
• Share this resource with people living with dementia and professionals.
• Take a look at the sister booklet – Tips for Talking with provides ideas for communication support.
• If you have serious concerns about someone’s eating and drinking please discuss this with a healthcare professional who can arrange appropriate referrals.

Contributors

This booklet was made by the Aberdeen City Adult Speech and Language Therapy service, with support by NHS Grampian Speech and Language Therapy Dementia Working Group (2023).

All photographs used with permission