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Feeding difficulty in older adults with dementia
Chia-Chi Chang1, Beverly L Roberts
1Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.
Journal of Clinical Nursing
|August 19, 2008
Summary
Feeding difficulty in older adults, especially those with dementia, is complex. This study defines its characteristics, antecedents, and consequences to guide better assessment and care strategies.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Clinical Nutrition
- Nursing Science
Background:
- Feeding difficulty is a prevalent issue in older adults, linked to malnutrition and aspiration pneumonia.
- Cognitive impairment in dementia exacerbates feeding challenges, affecting motor skills and acceptance of assistance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a concept analysis to define feeding difficulty in older adults.
- To identify the defining characteristics, antecedents, and consequences of feeding difficulty.
- To provide a framework for improved assessment and management strategies.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review of literature was performed in 2006.
- Searches were conducted across multiple databases (Medline, CINAHL, AGELINE, Social Science Full Text).
- Concept analysis was applied to 70 relevant English articles to develop a conceptual model.
Main Results:
- Feeding difficulties emerge from the interaction between caregiver assistance and the older adult's ability to eat.
- A conceptual model was developed, outlining the antecedents and consequences of feeding difficulties.
Conclusions:
- The conceptual model offers a structured framework for research on feeding difficulties.
- It guides the assessment of feeding difficulties and their risk factors.
- The model supports the development of evidence-based guidelines for clinical practice and targeted interventions.
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