Client perspectives on living with dysphagia in the community

Howells, Simone R., Cornwell, Petrea L., Ward, Elizabeth C., and Kuipers, Pim (2021) Client perspectives on living with dysphagia in the community. International Journal of Speech-Language Pathology, 23 (2). pp. 201-212.

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Abstract

Purpose: Literature to date describing the lived experience of dysphagia has predominantly focussed on the clinical populations of stroke and head and neck cancer. The current study aimed to understand the experience of people with dysphagia of varying aetiologies living at home in the community.

Method: Using a qualitative descriptive approach grounded in phenomenology, individuals with dysphagia were interviewed (n = 15) about their experiences living with and managing dysphagia at home. Result: Thematic analysis revealed an overarching theme of “Journey of discovery–learning to live with dysphagia,” which described the process of managing dysphagia at home. This theme was characterised by three subthemes: (1) The story of dysphagia; (2) Engaging with support networks; and (3) Limited community awareness of dysphagia.

Conclusion: This study highlights a range of psychosocial impacts individuals with dysphagia living at home may experience. Participants described how managing other health conditions alongside dysphagia influenced their perspectives about dysphagia. speech-language pathologists must consider individual client health priorities and provide support for not just the physical but also the psychosocial needs of clients. The reduced profile of dysphagia in our communities continues to be an ongoing barrier for clients with dysphagia and their families.

Item ID: 74207
Item Type: Article (Research - C1)
ISSN: 1754-9515
Keywords: community, dysphagia, lived experience, qualitative, speech-language pathology
Copyright Information: © 2020 The Speech Pathology Association of Australia Limited
Date Deposited: 18 May 2022 23:10
FoR Codes: 42 HEALTH SCIENCES > 4201 Allied health and rehabilitation science > 420110 Speech pathology @ 50%
42 HEALTH SCIENCES > 4206 Public health > 420699 Public health not elsewhere classified @ 20%
42 HEALTH SCIENCES > 4206 Public health > 420603 Health promotion @ 30%
SEO Codes: 20 HEALTH > 2003 Provision of health and support services > 200301 Allied health therapies (excl. mental health services) @ 40%
20 HEALTH > 2003 Provision of health and support services > 200302 Community health care @ 60%
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