Patient and referral characteristics of adults with intellectual disability referred to speech and language therapy with eating, drinking and swallowing difficulties

What is it about?

This paper looks at adults with intellectual disabilities who are referred to speech and Language therapy for assessment of their eating, drinking and swallowing. It looks at their details, why they are referred and their health problems. Swallowing difficulties, also called dysphagia, are common and can lead to serious health problems like choking and pneumonia. The study looked at 74 referrals to a speech and language therapy service, mainly because of choking or hospital stay. Many of the adults had severe intellectual disabilities and other health difficulties. It highlights the importance of understanding each person's specific health needs, the need for specialised care and more awareness among caregivers and medical experts.

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