MODIFIED DIETS: DYSPHAGIA PART 3 (LIQUIDS)
By Flora Baker MS, EdM, RD, LDN and Gail K. Kachnycz RN, MSN 24 October 2025
Dysphagia is the medical term for swallowing difficulties. The inability to swallow liquids correctly may allow fluids to seep into the air passages or lungs. This condition is known as aspiration. The presence of a foreign substance in the lungs can lead to infection and pneumonia. Modifying liquids, usually by thickening them, can promote complete and correct swallowing and reduce the risk of aspiration.
Since 2019, the standard for the dysphagia diet is the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI). There are five levels of liquid thickness, ranging from thin (water) to extremely thick (similar to the consistency of pureed solids). The medical provider may specify the particular level of liquids according to the IDDSI guidelines. The caregiver or client should clarify any questions with the medical provider. The IDDSI website has patient handouts which can be downloaded and instructional videos on how to prepare the liquid and check for appropriate thickness. From the Home Page, click “Resources” along the top of the screen. The drop-down menu includes “Patient Handouts” and “Videos.”
Here is the link for IDDSI www.IDDSI.org
There are products on the market that will thicken thin liquids. A quick online search listed these: Thick-It, Clear DysphagiAide, ThickenUP Clear, and Purathick. These clear powders are unflavored and some can be used in both cold and hot liquids.
Some people cannot cook for themselves. Stores like Target and Walmart have a selection of pureed meals. Clients and caregivers can check for agencies in their community that provide home delivered meals that accommodate special diets. One such agency is Meals on Wheels.
https://www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/find-meals-and-services/
Philadelphia Corporation on Aging may help with locating agencies that provide meals.
No comments
Post a Comment