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Connecting With People: Getting in Touch with Dysphagia Survivors

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Published
07/23/2024

Many seniors develop dysphagia. Often, this condition appears following a stroke, but it can also affect men and women with cancer, GERD, dementia, Parkinson's disease, and more. Everyone must follow a healthy diet, work toward recovery, and prevent aspiration pneumonia when dealing with this condition. They can also take other steps to achieve a higher quality of life. 

How can a person connect with others who have survived dysphagia? Where should they turn for help? What other things can they do when struggling with this condition? The following guide answers these questions and more. 

Connect With Others

A person might be tempted to isolate when they have dysphagia. They worry about embarrassing themselves if they try to eat or drink in public. Isolation is never good for seniors, however. It increases their risk of cognitive problems. One way to connect with others who have survived this condition is to do so virtually.

Peer support can help a person cope with and learn how to control this condition. Once they have done so, they may be able to get out and socialize with others in person to benefit from face-to-face interactions. During these virtual get-togethers, ask others how they manage their dysphagia. They may recommend someone newly diagnosed with dysphagia check out SimplyThick's Facebook or provide other resources that have helped them in their journey.

Benefit From Telehealth

Before the global pandemic, men and women would need to visit their speech-language pathologist in person to receive treatment for their swallowing disorder. Thanks to the rise in telehealth seen with COVID-19, Medicare and most private insurers cover virtual visits today. Talk with the SLP to see if they have resources that will allow the patient to connect with dysphagia survivors. They might have a support group in their office or know of a local one where people can connect. Support groups are of great help because people who have recently been diagnosed with the disease can connect with those who have been living with it for an extended time. Seeing these survivors may give them hope for the future. 

Practice Swallowing Strategies

Dysphagia survivors know the importance of practicing swallowing strategies. Practice makes perfect and helps build muscle memory, so the person won't have to think about using the strategy. They will do so automatically, even in a group with others. Swallowing strategies commonly recommended by speech-language pathologists include taking small bites, thoroughly chewing food, and sitting in the correct position while eating. 

Remain Active

People with dysphagia need to remain active to keep their bodies strong and healthy. Any exercise is beneficial in helping reduce the risk of aspiration pneumonia. Obesity also plays a role in dysphagia, so losing weight may help a person control their symptoms. 

Good Oral Health

Men and women suffering from dysphagia must care for their teeth and mouth. They need to brush and floss to ensure all food particles are removed. Brushing and flossing also remove the bacteria that can cause infections and other health issues. 

Keep Supplies on Hand

Following a healthy diet is essential for men and women with dysphagia. Thickening agents are of great benefit to these individuals. Purchase extra so there is always some on hand, and talk to the insurance company to see if it will cover all or part of the cost. 

Dysphagia affects many people today. It is a medical condition, much like diabetes or kidney disease. People should not be embarrassed when their symptoms cause them difficulties. Anyone diagnosed with this disorder should connect with others to share experiences and gain hope. A quality life with dysphagia is possible, so don't give up. Make these connections today. 

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