In message <[log in to unmask]> Parkinson's Disease - Information
Exchange Network writes:
> I am a speech-langage pathologist working in long term care in Toronto. =
> I have been asked to see many residents with Parkinson's disease. I am =
> interested in knowning if anyone is willing to share information about =
> changes in taste or swallowing and how you coped with them. Many of the =
> people I see have had Parkinson's for many years ( the longest is 27 =
> years) and I have found that your messages have helped me to understand =
> some of their "complaints" better. Not to say they are complaining!=20
> Do you have any suggestions for dry mouth, lack of appetite,or meeting =
> nutritional requirements if your eating is slow and fatiguing?
> I wish we had internet access at our institution so the families and =
> residents could benefit from your wisdom and support,
> Thank you and be well, Jane Little
Jane - My wife, 76/10+, has a moderately severe swallowing problem and a
constant dry mouth. For the latter she has a small plastic container with a
built in straw. When the straw is turned down, the apparatus is closed and can't
leak. I keep it stocked with ice-water and it has become her constant companion.
These are available in hardware and variety stores.
Her swallowing difficulty is not overwhelmingly severe. It reponds to
usual measures: cutting meat into quite small pieces, using gravy and sauces
liberally, etc. She takes Sinemet with either applesauce or fruit yogurt.
Good luck -- Bob Howard
Bob Howard, occasionally known formally as:
Robert B. Howard <[log in to unmask]>
1320 Wisconsin St.
Hudson, WI 54016
Voice phone (714) 386 3596
