More than management: benefits of early recognition and intervention in adult dysphagia
Dysphagia affects millions of adults and is associated with significant health risks, including reduced quality of life, aspiration pneumonia, malnutrition, dehydration and avoidable hospital admissions. While assessment and management of established dysphagia are well recognised, it is clear that a proactive MDT approach can support longer term health outcomes.
This webinar explores some of the evidence underpinning this proactive approach. We will examine risk factors for dysphagia, recognise early clinical indicators, and consider how timely intervention can reduce complications and support person-centred care. The session will also highlight the role of multidisciplinary working, oral health, nutrition, rehabilitation, and education in preventing dysphagia-related morbidity.
Learning Outcomes
- Describe some of the current evidence supporting prevention and early intervention in adult dysphagia.
- Recognise patient groups and clinical factors associated with increased risk of developing dysphagia and its complications.
- Identify early clinical signs that warrant timely assessment or referral for specialist dysphagia management.
- Discuss the contribution of oral health, nutrition, hydration, positioning and rehabilitation in reducing dysphagia-related complications.
- Describe the role of multidisciplinary collaboration in improving outcomes for adults at risk of dysphagia.
Meet our Experts:
Jenny Rolfe
Jenny is a senior occupational therapist. She qualified in 1997 and completed her MSc in Neuro-rehabilitation in 2007. She has worked in Neurological Rehabilitation at the Battle Hospital in Reading, and the Rivermead Rehabilitation Centre in Oxford which became part of the Oxford Centre for Enablement in 2000. She moved into the Specialist Disability Service at the OCE from where she joined the Oxford MND Centre in January 2007.
Since August 2009 Jenny has been funded full-time by the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association to develop NHS wheelchair services across the UK, to improve wheelchair provision for people living with MND.
Jennifer Benson
Jennifer Benson is an independent Speech and Language Therapist with over 25 years experience across both NHS and private practice. She works with people with a wide variety of neurological difficulties, with particular specialisms in both MND and acquired brain injury. She is Clinical Adviser for the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists, and sits on the expert core of the MND Community of Practice. She contributes to many project groups in both fields, alongside a busy private practice. Jennifer particularly enjoys and values MDT working and problem solving in complex cases.