Vivir Healthcare can support elderly residents in Residential Aged Care Facilities (RACF’s) by providing communication and swallowing assessments and treatments with our team of accredited speech pathologists.
Swallowing difficulties
Swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) affects nearly 40-50% of residents in RACFs and results in undesirable outcomes including:
Aspiration pneumonia
Dehydration
Malnutrition
Poor quality of life
Prolonged and increased rates of hospitalisation
It is important to request a swallowing assessment by a speech pathologist when a resident shows signs of aspiration (coughing, choking, or a wet voice after swallowing).
Vivir’s Speech Pathologists are qualified professionals who provide expert advice on swallowing and assist with preventing and improving the swallowing safety of residents at RACF’s. We visit your facility, liaise with your nursing staff and undertake assessments to build tailored care plans. The speech pathologist will make appropriate recommendations that may include modifying foods and/ or fluids and providing safe swallowing strategies that are tailored to the resident’s cognitive status and level of independence.
Communication
Up to 96% of elderly Australians living in RACF’s have a communication disorder. Effective communication is fundamental for everyday living and essential for one’s quality of life.
Vivir’s Speech Pathologists conduct communication assessments and provide therapy and strategies when communication is affected due to conditions such as stroke, Parkinson’s Disease and dementia.
What your Vivir speech pathologist can offer:
In addition to speech assessment and treatment services, Vivir’s speech pathologists can offer:
Group Therapy
Residents may benefit from social communication or communication groups targeted specifically for their needs. Groups can include, but are not limited to:
Aphasia groups
Social communication groups
LSVT LOUD for Parkinson’s
Education
Vivir’s Speech Pathologists can also conduct education sessions for catering and kitchen staff, nursing staff, residents and carers.
Topics can include, but are not limited to:
The role of a speech pathologist
Dysphagia:
What dysphagia is
Managing dysphagia
Texture modified diets and thickened fluids
Communication:
Communication-partner training
How to achieve successful communication
What aphasia is
Contact us today to discuss how Vivir’s team of Accredited Speech Pathologists can assist you with improving the communication and swallowing of the residents at your aged care facility.