Painter V, et al. – This paper scrutinized the evidence for texture–modified food and fluids (TMF) in dementia. Evidence suggesting the efficacy of TMF in improving clinical outcomes such as aspiration pneumonia, nutrition, hydration, morbidity, and mortality among people living with dementia and in residential care facilities, was lacking. Furthermore, adverse effects were identified, that included poorer energy and fluid intake.

Methods

• Researchers performed a literature search using terms “dysphagia,” “texture-modified food and fluids,” “dementia,” and “aged care” by using three electronic databases from 1990 to March 2017.
• Studies were assessed for suitability, then reviewed with data extracted, and grouped by categories of outcome measures.

Results

• Researchers identified a total of 3,722 publications, and 22 studies met the inclusion criteria.
• Data showed that studies were heterogeneous in design and methodology.
• They observed that there were no publications examining dementia exclusively; however, many subjects with dementia were included in studies of residential aged care facilities.
• Findings demonstrated that TMF reduced the risk of aspiration seen on videofluoroscopy but not clinical aspiration and pneumonia.
• Results also indicated that TMF was associated with lower daily energy and fluid intake and variable adherence.