We’re All Working Together To Support Every Resident

Sometimes, I know circumstances lead to speech pathology advice, regarding modifications to a resident’s diet, being over-ridden. We make a relatively brief visit, assess the resident, give advice and then off we go.

We’re not a part of the daily routine, of the bigger picture of that resident’s life within their family and/or environment. We may not always see the family in that context either, nor the day-to-day interactions of that resident with staff and/or carers.

Often the resident’s presentation and ability to manage different textures varies from day to day or even meal to meal. That gets especially tricky in terms of making recommendations, as we all want the resident to be eating a diet that’s closest to a normal diet – one that we all enjoy eating. However, if even one meal, in fact one mouthful is not swallowed comfortably and safely AT ALL TIMES, the resident is the one at risk of serious health complications.

Therefore, we need to understand that the resident’s body is the boss, not anyone else. We, as speech pathologists, must err on the side of caution and as a result, often take the most conservative path regarding diet modifications. This can be hard for those caring for the resident to navigate. However, this philosophy protects the resident at all times.

We take great care in advising about the safety of that resident at the time we assessed them. It goes beyond that visit though. We know that to successfully maintain the diet and safety for each resident, all of those involved with them, need to be on the same page. We work in with the nursing staff, care workers, dietitians, GP, kitchen staff and family, to ensure everyone has the same understanding of the consequences of deviating from the advice given. Everyone needs education.

Find out more at https://safeswallowing.com.au