Strategies to Improve the Hydration of Residents with Dysphagia in Nursing Homes

Prevalence of dehydration in residential care is challenging to estimate, as there are variable ways of assessing this condition. A systematic review by Paulis et al. (2018) identified a range of 0.08 -38.5%. Dehydration is more likely to occur in those with dysphagia due to their low fluid intake. A variety of strategies have been instituted to promote hydration in those with dysphagia, however there is a lack of evidence to guide practice. The aim of this lecture is help to spread among health care professionals the importance to improve the hydration of residents with dyspahgia.