As speech-language pathologists we often work with older adults with dysphagia. Did you know that patients with dysphagia are at higher risk for developing malnutrition? Did you know that older adults are also at higher risk for developing malnutrition?
Malnutrition is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. This includes: decreased function and quality of life, increased frequency and length of hospital stay, greater likelihood of hospital readmission, more health-care associated infections, worse health outcomes, higher rates of depression, and higher healthcare costs.
We MUST pay attention to nutritional requirements and the prevention of malnutrition when treating dysphagia in older adults. SLPs play an important role in the interdisciplinary management of nutrition, hydration, and safe eating/swallowing!
