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Managing dysphagia in mentally retarded adults

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Abstract

Mentally retarded adults with dysphagia are a chronically disabled population with high incidence of co-occurring gastrointestinal and respiratory disorders. Their ability to achieve and maintain optimal functional adequacy of swallow is dependent on medical and nutritional management of the disorder, as well as on improving the swallow itself. This paper presents a dysphagia management protocol for this population, which includes screening to identify at risk individuals, diagnostic evaluation of dysphagia, daily management to promote optimal mealtime function, and dysphagia therapy to improve underlying neuromotor competency and eating skills.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Speech and Language Pathology and Audiology, Teachers College, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA

    Justine Joan Sheppard Ph.D.

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  1. Justine Joan Sheppard Ph.D.
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Sheppard, J.J. Managing dysphagia in mentally retarded adults. Dysphagia 6, 83–87 (1991). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02493484

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02493484

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