Preserving the Joy of Eating: Rethinking Dysphagia Management in Dementia Care

Nicole Rogus-Pulia, PhD, CCC-SLP, ASHA Fellow        

Associate Professor, Division of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health

Eating and swallowing issues (dysphagia) are highly prevalent in persons with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD), with changes occurring early and worsening with disease progression. Multiple factors contribute to onset of dysphagia and its negative health consequences. Proactive care models for dysphagia management in persons with ADRD can lead to optimization of eating and swallowing and improved quality of life.