A systematic review on dysphagia treatments for persons living with dementia

Dysphagia in persons living with dementia (PLWD) is raising concern due to the absence of swallowing treatments specific to this population. Dysphagia can result in detrimental effects, such as malnutrition, dehydration, and aspiration pneumonia. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the existing literature on dysphagia management of PLWD and reveal their limitations to facilitate clinical practitioners in decision-making.

Five electronic databases were searched systematically from the date of inception to January 2024 by two independent reviewers. Eligible studies investigated any treatments with outcome measurements evaluating swallowing function. Qualitative analyses were performed.

A total of 10 studies, involving 1360 participants, were included in the systematic review. They were analyzed qualitatively and evaluated for quality. Studies included were observational (n = 5) with prospective or retrospective designs, and randomized controlled trials (n = 5). Compensatory, rehabilitative, stimulation, and pharmacological treatments were addressed.

There is currently limited evidence available revealing the efficacy of dysphagia treatments for PLWD. Based on the current evidence, no definitive conclusions can be drawn on which treatments are more effective for this population. In the future, more randomized controlled trials with large sample sizes investigating the long-term effects of treatments are warranted.