Another Tool in the Toolkit: the Benefits of the New Zealand Secretion Scale on FEES Studies
SLPs are trained to scrutinize every swallow during FEES studies. We meticulously document airway protection and residue scores, and we make diet recommendations based on bolus trials. Focusing on just the food and drink trials alone could leave out a critical piece of the pneumonia prediction puzzle.
FEES Friday: Rethinking Swallow Initiation Zones
This FEES Friday, we're diving into swallow initiation zones. In the video, our patient is eating a mixed texture (diced peaches in syrup). The liquid component progresses all the way down to the pyriform sinuses while the patient is still chewing the solid pieces. Delayed swallow, right? Actually, no!
New Year, Stronger Voice: Our Vision for 2026 in Dysphagia Care
As the year draws to a close, the Patheous Health team is taking a moment to reflect on how far we’ve come—and consider where we’re headed next. Thankfully, 2025 was a year of innovation, growth, and connection for Patheous Health.
Spread Cheer, Not Choking Hazards: Holiday Food Safety for Senior Care Teams
The holidays bring sweet treats, festive buffets, and joyful gatherings—but for individuals with dysphagia, many traditional holiday foods can pose hidden hazards. Sticky candies, mixed textures, crunchy toppings, and dry baked goods are some of the biggest culprits.
Winter Wellness: Preventing Winter Related Complications in the Elderly
Winter brings cozy meals, family gatherings, and warm drinks—but also an increase in respiratory illnesses that can complicate swallowing. For elderly individuals, pneumonia and flu season can increase the risk of medical conditions that can be linked to dysphagia, dehydration and malnutrition.
The Gift of Connection: How Speech-Language Pathologists Improve Lives Every Day
Every day, speech-language pathologists (SLPs) give a gift that goes far beyond words—they restore connection for their patients. This season, as we gather around tables and share stories with family and friends, we’re reminded that communication and sharing good food are at the very heart of connecting around the holidays.
