Selecting the right thickening agent for elderly dysphagia sufferers requires careful consideration of individual needs.
This article provides valuable insights into choosing a suitable thickener for the elderly, identifying safe brands, and avoiding potential risks, empowering you to make informed decisions for yourself or a loved one.
While navigating the world of thickening agents for the elderly may seem daunting, this simple guide offers assistance.
Considerations when selecting a Dysphagia thickener for Seniors
1. Easy to mix
One crucial factor to consider when selecting a thickener is its ease of mixing. A thickener that is easy to mix can save valuable time during meal preparation, allowing caretakers and individuals with dysphagia to focus on other aspects of mealtime.
An easy-to-mix thickener can help prevent lumps or clumps in the liquid, ensuring a smooth and consistent texture that is easier to swallow. And Supercol’s unique formulation allows for just that – quick and effortless mixing for a smooth texture every time.
2. Minimal impact on taste
When choosing a thickener for dysphagia, minimising the impact on taste is crucial. No one wants to eat something that tastes bad!
Luckily, Supercol food and drink thickener blends seamlessly with various liquids without altering their flavours. This is particularly important as individuals with dysphagia often struggle with changes in taste and texture.
3. Consistency
Select a thickening agent that delivers the intended texture. Opting for an easily mixable thickener like Supercol can prevent the formation of lumps or clumps in the liquid, resulting in a uniform consistency that is more manageable for swallowing and true to the original food or drink.
4. Ingredients
When choosing a food and drink thickener for elderly dysphagia sufferers, avoid ingredients like thickeners with high levels of sugar and artificial flavours and colours.
Instead, choose natural ingredients such as guar gum. Made from the guar bean, guar gum is a natural galactomannan that helps to hold and thicken food without creating an unpleasant texture.
The source of Supercol’s guar gum is the nourishing guar bean, which is abundant in fibre and has been associated with lower blood glucose and cholesterol levels.
5. Safety
Choose a thickener that is specifically formulated for dysphagia and has been tested for safety.
Supercol Australia works in partnership with ISO and Food Safety System Certification 22000 (FSSC 22000) accredited suppliers to ensure that only the finest quality guar gum is used in our thickener.
6. Individual preferences and dietary restrictions
It’s crucial to consider individual preferences and dietary restrictions to ensure compliance and enjoyment of meals.
Consulting with a healthcare professional is strongly advised to ensure the best choice based on the individual’s specific needs.
6 Key considerations when selecting thickener for elderly dysphagia sufferers
Selecting the right food and drink thickener for elderly dysphagia sufferers involves carefully considering various factors such as mixing methods, taste preferences, desired consistency, and dietary restrictions. It’s crucial to prioritise safety when choosing a thickening agent and ensure it meets all necessary health standards.
Additionally, being mindful of individual dietary requirements and restrictions is essential to avoid any adverse effects. By taking these considerations into account, you can make informed decisions about the best thickening options for your specific needs.
Remember to consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist if you have any concerns or questions about choosing the right thickener for your food and drinks.
If you are looking after an older family member or a person with difficulty swallowing, Supercol may have the solution you are looking for. We invite you to our website for more information about us, to shop or to contact us directly.