I LOVE the work I do

I can’t tell you how gratifying it is to assess a resident or loved one being looked after at home, whose swallow has improved since their initial swallowing assessment. To be able to let them know they can return to a normal diet brings great joy all ‘round.

The first several months after a stroke for example, is referred to as a spontaneous recovery period. During this time, patients naturally regain some use of their arm or leg, on the affected side of their body. Their swallowing function can also improve spontaneously.

On initial assessment, they may have had the consistency of their food and liquids modified to ensure their safety whilst eating. Our role, as speech pathologists is to assess the person’s swallow function and recommend consistencies that support their oral intake going into their stomach, not their lungs. Food or fluid in the lungs can cause infection, pneumonia and even death.

Being sure family, carers, disability and aged care staff know the signs of a swallowing problem and how best to support the person whose swallow has been affected, is a vital part of their role in caring for their loved one or resident.

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