Clinical Reasoning in Assessment and Therapy Planning for Older Persons with Dysphagia

About Course

This course will equip speech-language therapists with knowledge and skills to apply clinical reasoning to assess and plan therapy for persons with swallowing difficulties, especially for those of advanced age.

Designed for speech-language therapists who already possess a foundational understanding of basic assessment techniques such as oral motor exams and clinical bedside evaluations, the course deepens clinical reasoning skills through paper-based case studies, case discussions, and simulated patient scenarios involving common conditions in older adults.

Learners will explore the anatomy and physiology of swallowing, age-related changes that affect swallowing, and a range of assessment methods for dysphagia in the elderly — including clinical observations, case history interviews, and the interpretation of instrumental assessments such as videofluoroscopy and fiberoptic endoscopic studies.

The course also covers common medical conditions and comorbidities prevalent among older adults, such as dementia, delirium, infections, neurological injuries, and nutritional issues, and their impact on swallowing and treatment planning.

Learners will apply a clinical reasoning framework to guide assessment and develop appropriate intervention strategies, including compensatory techniques, exercise-based therapies, dietary modifications, and adaptive equipment. They will practise and demonstrate their ability to manage dysphagia in both case discussions and simulated scenarios.

Effective communication with dysphagic clients and their families is emphasised throughout, with role play activities used to practise caregiver counselling, educate on challenging issues, and provide support related to swallowing management. Interdisciplinary collaboration is also highlighted as essential for comprehensive care, with opportunities to practise teamwork and communication with other healthcare professionals including physicians, nurses, and dieticians.

The course further develops skills in evidence-based practice and covers ethical and legal considerations relevant to working with older adults, enabling learners to critically evaluate current research and guidelines to support informed, best-practice decision-making in geriatric dysphagia management.