AAC Nutrition & Hydration Management Flashcards

Which swallowing difficulty, commonly seen in late-stage Alzheimer's disease, increases the risk of aspiration pneumonia?

Answer: Dysphagia

Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, is common in late-stage Alzheimer's and significantly increases the risk of food or liquid entering the airway.

What is the primary purpose of using thickened liquids for individuals with Alzheimer's disease who have swallowing difficulties?

Answer: To reduce aspiration risk

Thickened liquids slow the flow of fluids, giving individuals more time to coordinate swallowing and reducing the risk of aspiration.

Which behavioral change in a person with Alzheimer's disease most directly signals a risk of dehydration?

Answer: Refusal to drink fluids

Refusing to drink fluids is a key behavioral indicator that can lead to dehydration, which worsens confusion and functional decline.

When a person with Alzheimer's begins pocketing food in their cheeks without swallowing, the care team should first:

Answer: Consult a speech-language pathologist

Pocketing food is a sign of possible oral motor dysfunction or dysphagia, which requires evaluation by a speech-language pathologist.

Which mealtime approach best supports independent eating in a person with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease?

Answer: Using finger foods and adaptive utensils

Finger foods and adaptive utensils promote independence and reduce frustration for individuals who have difficulty using standard tableware.

Unintentional weight loss in a person with Alzheimer's disease is most often attributed to which combination of factors?

Answer: Reduced appetite, increased energy expenditure, and forgetting to eat

Weight loss in Alzheimer's typically results from decreased appetite, wandering-related energy burn, and the person forgetting they have already eaten or need to eat.