It features a one-piece lid, a drinking spout, and it’s easy to assemble and disassemble it. The wedge mug is also dishwasher safe, and it’s made in the USA. The first dysphagia cup we examined was the Provale convalescent drinking cup. Its manufacturers say that its broad base is designed to decrease the chances of spilling and tipping, and its dual handles provide for a more secure drinking experience.

If you are struggling with caring for yourself, which includes getting enough to eat and drink, consider asking for a health and social care needs assessment. Since the Care Act 2014 came into power in April 2015, anyone who appears to need care and support can request an assessment from their local council, irrespective of their income or savings. The Act also places a statutory duty on local authorities to assist their residents to prevent a deterioration in their health and well-being. The 'prevention' strategies of many local authorities includes the early provision of equipment and services to help prevent, delay or reduce the development of needs for care and support. Difficulties with initiating or carrying out movement may occur in later stages. This might affect all actions required to get food to the mouth and then to eat it. Verbal prompting and physical assistance may be needed. Finger foods or less ‘messy’ foods might help. As dementia progresses, swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) become more common. If a person has difficulty chewing and swallowing, you are advised to seek an appointment with a speech and language therapist. Having softer foods might help. The way it works, is that users will place a finger over the cup's vent hole in its cap, controlling the liquid flow through its mouthpiece. This blue provable cup has a broad base to minimize spilling and tipping, two removable handles, and it delivers a fixed amount of liquid with every slip – 5 cc. The cup is also easy to clean, and you can even toss in the dishwater. The Rolyn cup is also offered in 10 cc model.

Details

As well, they found that as their elderly charge tried to take a drink, they were taking in multiple breaths before the liquid in the bottom of the convalescent cup actually reached their lips, increasing the risk of aspiration. It is indicated for use by individuals who suffer from dysphagia or other medical issues that compromise their ability to swallow. It has the capacity for 8 oz of liquids, and it’s safe to wash it in the dishwasher up to 180 °F. The mug is also BPA, phthalates, latex free and it’s an excellent choice if you need help drinking.

They say that the cup is kind of bulky, too large for the small and frail hands of its elderly user. On the other hand, one buyer did express some satisfaction, when we interviewed her, saying that her elderly grandfather uses it to drink water. If you find that eating and drinking causes spillage onto your clothes, you may want to consider wearing an apron or bib. There is a large range of designs, some more discreet than others. They are available in disposable plastic or washable/wipeable materials. Consider what is the best fastening system for you, whether the bib/apron pulls over the head, is tied, has a Velcro hook and loop system, a popper, or some other way of fixing.

Feeding Cup

She said while he was initially resistant to using it because his swallowing conditions were so severe he just wasn't getting enough hydration- this particular cup provided smaller sips that were easier to swallow, helping to keep her elderly, convalescent father safely hydrated.