Exploring Dysphagia in Alzheimer's Disease: A Comprehensive Meta-Analysis Literature Review
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease and dementia are progressive conditions that develop gradually, potentially heightening the risk of dysphagia, a condition characterized by difficulties in swallowing. As Alzheimer's disease advances, it can impact cognitive and motor functions, potentially causing challenges in coordinating the muscles involved in the swallowing process. The aim of this literature review was to investigate and determine the prevalence of dysphagia among individuals with Alzheimer's disease and dementia, identify symptoms associated with dysphagia associated with Alzheimer's disease and dementia, explore relevant dysphagia interventions employed by healthcare professionals, and pinpoint common assessments used to identify both dementia and dysphagia. The systematic literature review utilized bibliographic databases, such as PubMed, CINAHL, and specific journals, such as Dysphagia and the American Journal of Alzheimer's Disease and Other Dementia. A total of 33 articles were retrieved, of which 23 were selected after applying inclusion criteria. The review highlighted an increased prevalence of aspiration among Alzheimer’s disease and dementia patients.
Additionally, malnutrition emerged as a prevalent and impactful factor. Insufficient motor control in older adults can hinder their ability to self-feed, resulting in inadequate food intake to meet nutritional requirements. Ultimately, leading to weight loss and malnourishment. Common evaluations for assessing participants' cognitive function included the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), while Videofluoroscopy and Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) were frequently used to assess swallowing function. Various interventions were utilized, with food modification being a crucial component in the intervention plan for patients with dysphagia and Alzheimer's disease or dementia disorder. This project is ongoing, with plans to provide a resource booklet to families of patients with dysphagia caused by Alzheimer's disease and dementia.
Faculty Sponsors
Dr. Barbara O'Conner Wells
Project Type
Event
Location
Alvin Sherman Library
Start Date
4-3-2024 12:30 PM
End Date
4-4-2024 1:30 PM
Exploring Dysphagia in Alzheimer's Disease: A Comprehensive Meta-Analysis Literature Review
Alvin Sherman Library
Alzheimer's disease and dementia are progressive conditions that develop gradually, potentially heightening the risk of dysphagia, a condition characterized by difficulties in swallowing. As Alzheimer's disease advances, it can impact cognitive and motor functions, potentially causing challenges in coordinating the muscles involved in the swallowing process. The aim of this literature review was to investigate and determine the prevalence of dysphagia among individuals with Alzheimer's disease and dementia, identify symptoms associated with dysphagia associated with Alzheimer's disease and dementia, explore relevant dysphagia interventions employed by healthcare professionals, and pinpoint common assessments used to identify both dementia and dysphagia. The systematic literature review utilized bibliographic databases, such as PubMed, CINAHL, and specific journals, such as Dysphagia and the American Journal of Alzheimer's Disease and Other Dementia. A total of 33 articles were retrieved, of which 23 were selected after applying inclusion criteria. The review highlighted an increased prevalence of aspiration among Alzheimer’s disease and dementia patients.
Additionally, malnutrition emerged as a prevalent and impactful factor. Insufficient motor control in older adults can hinder their ability to self-feed, resulting in inadequate food intake to meet nutritional requirements. Ultimately, leading to weight loss and malnourishment. Common evaluations for assessing participants' cognitive function included the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), while Videofluoroscopy and Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) were frequently used to assess swallowing function. Various interventions were utilized, with food modification being a crucial component in the intervention plan for patients with dysphagia and Alzheimer's disease or dementia disorder. This project is ongoing, with plans to provide a resource booklet to families of patients with dysphagia caused by Alzheimer's disease and dementia.
