A Liquid Thickener Presentation Format for the Therapeutic Management of Dysphagia—A Promising Step Forward in Addressing the Challenges Associated With Thickened Fluids in Swallowing Disorders?

What is already known on this subject Thickening fluids in routine care of patients with OD can improve swallow safety but can be counteracted by reduced palatability and enjoyment, embarrassment, and isolation related to drinking thickened fluids (TFs). TFs are also associated with increased caregiver burden and significant lifestyle alterations. OD concomitant with aphasia is common in some OD subpopulations; however, these patients are typically excluded from research due to the lack of aphasia friendly survey tools. There persists a need to overcome these disadvantages. What this paper adds to existing knowledge The current investigation is the first study to directly compare acceptability (derived from the measured variables palatability, tolerance, ease of use and preference) for TFs thickened using different thickener presentation formats in the same patient cohort. The liquid thickener intervention is a palatable, acceptable, and well-tolerated way to support optimal hydration in adults with OD. In addition, aphasia-accessible study materials have been developed to facilitate future recruitment and data collection from this underserved subgroup. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work? PTI thickened beverages are recommended for consumption by patients suffering from OD as an alternative to powdered thickened TFs. PTI is a palatable, acceptable, and well-tolerated way to support optimal hydration in adults with OD prescribed TFs. This study also highlights an important methodological advancement in OD research related to inclusion of participants with language impairment.