Feeding and swallowing in senior citizens diagnosed with mild or moderate Alzheimer’s disease

Abstract

Purpose: This study focused on the description of the aspects related to feeding handicap in old patients diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, as well as the behaviors related to such limitations and the swallowing process. Methods: twenty-six senior citizens were included in the study, fourteen presenting mild dementia (CDR 1) and twelve, moderate dementia (CDR 2). An assessment questionnary, which included questions about swallowing and self-feeding, was used. In addition, radiologic assessment of the swallowing process was carried out, using videofluoroscopy. Results: All subjects needed feeding assistance. Disruptive behavior during meals and attempts to eat inedible substances were also reported. The most prevalent impairments identified during the oral and pharyngeal stages of swallowing were those related to the preparation of alimentary bolus (n=10), as well as its slow management (n=13) and laryngeal liquid permeation of the contrast (n=14). These disfunctions were most common in the group with moderate dementia. Conclusion: Both self-feeding and swallowing processes may be impaired since the earliest stages of Alzheimer’s disease. In spite of the impairment, the population’s study was capable of receiving oral feeding in relatively safe fashion.