Speech therapist consultation

Sorry you need to be cheered up on your Speech and Language consultations. I do remember
the same range of emotions I felt at the start of this process.

Actually, now having been through it I feel completely differently. In fact there is no downside, problems
have been solved and I have a healthier, safer lifestyle with regard to these issues.

Two years ago, I had a raft of appointments with ENT, SALT and Dieticians and even more this year. Very
grateful to find that the only problems were “muscle coordination issues” consistent with my MD. They
have gradually moved me to a soft food diet in a coordinated plan and it is all good.

I have special adapted lightweight drinking mugs and adaptive cutlery. A whole range of gorgeous and safe
food options! These days it is no longer just Complan and Water. Oakhouse Foods and Wiltshire Farm Foods
are experts in their field. The latter even have sections in their catalogue for “Mashable”, “Pre-Mashed”, “Category
E” and “Pureed” and even “Shaped Pureed Meals”. In my “Category E”, there is a wonderful tasty and nutritious
range. The Dietos say the best meals for avoiding choking risks are Cottage and Shepherd’s Pie and
the various stews and hot pots. They are quite happy with me ordering these from Iceland
or Asda.

It is wonderful to have so many safe and yet totally healthy options. You can relax knowing all is safe
and still enjoy good food.

Very good points and questions.

Number one I have found a way to still enjoy my Roast Dinners.

I order the microwave Roast Chicken and Roast Beef dinners from Iceland, add
a bit of extra gravy and mash the harder bits and let them soak until soft in the gravy.
The chicken breast when cut into the stringy bits is still gorgeous.

Just as important for swallowing and motility issues is to eat with correct posture. I always
eat sitting at 90 degrees in my Rise and Recline chair. You feel less likely to have a choking
incident when the angles are right. Also eat with no distractions! I have my main meal
at eight in the morning.

Kapitex Ltd are specialists at lightweight cups and cutlery. Their “Maroon Spoons” have a special
Flat bowl that is easier to eat from. They also cut. Did order from E-Bay set of “Hospital Mugs”
From USA. Lightweight, insulated, easy grip, see through! They are perfect and hold 500 ml even.
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Lot-of-4-New-32-oz-Whirley-Hospital-Mugs-Plastic-Thermo-Mugs-/281711530049?hash=item419750d041

http://www.kapitexshop.com

http://www.kapitex.com/dysphagia/eating-drinking/maroon-spoons

For cutlery use some lightweight, some thick handled adaptive cutlery from Care and Repair.

Good posts in fact!! This is why I love this forum

This has been mentioned to me in the past but for a different reason – more to let air out than take liquid/nutrients in. I decided against it for now.