The impact of acquired neurological oropharyngeal dysphagia on the health-related quality of life of care home residents

Speech and Language Therapists (SLTs) have a key role in the management of oropharyngeal dysphagia. Dysphagia has many adverse consequences and negatively impacts quality of life (e.g. weight loss, embarrassment, depression). Dysphagia is prevalent among the care home population, affecting between 50% and 75% of residents. However, minimal research has explored the impact of dysphagia upon the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of care home residents. Without such data, SLTs will be illequipped to meet the needs of this client group. This investigation sought to gain insight into the HRQOL issues for care home residents with oropharyngeal dysphagia caused by an acquired neurological disorder. A qualitative methodology based on the principles of descriptive phenomenology was adopted. Interviews, mealtime observations and reflexive discussions were used to collect data from seven residents with acquired neurological oropharyngeal dysphagia and six residents without dysphagia. Interviews and discussions were transcribed verbatim and common themes were identified using a framework for phenomenological analysis. Observational data were examined for corroborations/contradictions with participants' accounts. Participants with dysphagia described the physical, social and psychological impact of dysphagia, commented on their degree of satisfaction with diet modification and provided insight into their awareness of dysphagia and its overall impact. They also discussed other aspects of their mealtime experience, referring to their enjoyment of eating and mealtimes; barriers to mealtime enjoyment; choice at mealtimes and eating desire, findings which were similar to those obtained from the control participants. The observational data mainly corroborated with participants' accounts. Based on these findings, SLTs should ensure that they consistently adopt a holistic approach to the management of care home residents with acquired neurological oropharyngeal dysphagia, collaborate with and provide education and training to care home staff.

Name dc:type.qualificationname

phd

Level dc:type.qualificationlevel

doctoral-pg

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

University of Strathclyde

Year dc:date.issued

2014

Author dc:creator

• Hutchison, Rebecca

DOI

10.48730/4e3c-7132

Identifier

T13774

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:strathclyde:4q77fr380