Five fundamental Ms: cutting aspiration risk in dementia and dysphagia patients

Swallowing ability is not only affected by increasing age but also by dementia. People with advanced dementia will often develop dysphagia, resulting in harmful consequences to their health and wellbeing. However, it is recommended that they should continue to receive an oral diet, rather than being put on enteral feeding, because this is better for their quality of life. This article discusses the 5 Fundamental Ms – these are key recommendations that can be used as a framework to help health professionals who are involved in the treatment and care of people with dementia and dysphagia to help their patients eat and drink while reducing their risk of aspiration