Dysphagia can have a profound impact on a person's life. It turns something as seemingly simple as enjoying a meal or even drinking a glass of water into a complicated undertaking. It can be dangerous as well. It greatly increases the risk of aspirating foods and beverages, which can lead to choking, infections, and other problems. Whether you're a designated caregiver for someone who suffers from dysphagia or you simply want to be more supportive of a loved one with the condition, the following five measures can help. 

Provide Dysphagia-Friendly Foods and Beverages

One way to support a family member or friend with dysphagia is to provide appropriate foods and beverages for them. Conventional beverages can be difficult for dysphagia patients to manage because they're thin and can easily slip into the airway rather than making their way to the stomach. Thickening agents are available to help with that issue, and you can refer to SimplyThick social media posts to learn more about them. 

Consider having soft foods on hand as well. Those include bananas, mashed potatoes, cooked fruits and vegetables, and pudding. You can make nutrient-rich smoothies ahead of time for your loved one to enjoy. Keep your loved one's needs and difficulties in mind at mealtime. Though you don't have to serve only dysphagia-friendly foods to all of your family members or guests, be sure to have them available for your loved one who needs them.

Learn About the Condition

Another effective way to support someone who lives with dysphagia is to learn all you can about the condition. Understand what caused your loved one's condition and how it affects his or her life. This condition isn't the same for everyone, so take time to learn the specifics as they apply to your loved one. Find out which foods he or she struggles with most and which ones your loved one enjoys the most among other details. The more you know, the better you'll be able to support your loved one. 

Be Patient and Understanding

It's also important to be patient and understanding with your loved one. Modifying meals to meet the needs of someone who suffers from dysphagia or preparing special foods and beverages for them can be labor intensive and time consuming. Your loved one may not want to go to restaurants, which may be frustrating. When your loved one aspirates foods or beverages, chokes on foods, or experiences other issues related to the condition, it can be frightening. Keep in mind, though, no matter how scary, frustrating, or tiresome it is for you, it's monumentally more so for your loved one. 

Understand the Treatments

Additionally, try to become familiar with your loved one's treatments. Learn which exercises and other measures his or her care team is using to help manage the condition. Find out how you can help with things like muscle exercises and being mindful of posture. Understanding the treatments and how you can do your part may make a world of difference. 

Talk About It

Finally, encourage your loved one to talk about the condition and how it affects their life. Allow them to express their fears, concerns, and needs. Listen to what your loved one says and ask questions. Don't try to skirt around the situation or avoid it altogether. Being open about it is crucial to understanding the condition and what you can do to help. 

Supporting a Loved One With Dysphagia

Dysphagia can drastically change a person's life. Many people who live with the condition avoid eating and drinking in the presence of others. Some lose interest in those activities altogether. On top of that, the condition comes with an array of dangers. Keeping the five measures listed here in mind may help make the condition a bit easier for your loved one to live with.