Monthly Archives: June 2020

ABSSD Webinar for Dysphagia Awareness Month

A big thank you to the American Board of Swallowing and Swallowing Disorders for inviting Dr. Shune and Dr. Ashwini Namasivayam-MacDonald to speak about caregiver burden as part of their Dysphagia Awareness Month series. It was wonderful to be able to share our recent work and discuss opportunities for both clinicians and researchers to better engage with caregivers and family members.

In case you missed it, a recording of the Zoom session is available on their Facebook page here.

In light of COVID-19 and the increased burden placed on caregivers, the ABBSD has focused on honoring caregivers this Dysphagia Awareness Month. They have created a number of wonderful infographics that they have been sharing on their social media throughout the month, including:

Speaking to caregiver burden

A brand new publication out by Dr. Samantha Shune and Ashwini Namasivayam-MacDonald. Read on to learn more.

The biopsychosocial ramifications of dysphagia are widespread. However, its influence on informal caregivers and families is often overlooked. Ultimately, the health and well-being of an entire family is central to care provision. This tutorial introduces readers to the current literature on dysphagia-related caregiver burden and third-party disability, illustrates the consequences of such burden on both caregivers and patients, and suggests strategies for better supporting patients’ informal caregivers.

The link to the article can be found here.