Feeding and Swallowing Disorder in Adults With Intellectual Disabilities: Associated Factors.

BACKGROUND

Feeding and swallowing disorders (FSD)-dysphagia are common in adults with intellectual disabilities and frequently overseen by caregivers.

AIM: To determine the clinical factors that are relevant in daily practise associated with FSD in adults with intellectual disabilities.

METHOD: Cross-sectional data were collected from medical files. In addition, a digital questionnaire was sent to the primary caregiver. Logistic regression analysis was performed on beforehand determined and associated clinical variables.

RESULTS

In total, 106 participants (age 19 to 89) were included, and 54% of these participants were classified as having FSD. Variables positively associated with FSD were increasing mealtime support needs (p = 0.000), coughing (p = 0.004), cramming food (p = 0.027) and having severe-profound intellectual disability (p = 0.001). The use of antipsychotic medication was negatively associated with FSD (p = 0.024).

CONCLUSION

FSD is common in adults with intellectual disabilities and is associated with mealtime support needs, coughing, cramming food, the severity of intellectual disability, and the use of antipsychotic medication.