A service development to explore the recommendations for individuals with learning disabilities, focusing on the occupation of eating

Abstract

Executive Summary According to Crawley (2007), individuals with learning disabilities are more likely to have nutritionally related ill health and often experience additional issues associated with the occupation of eating. There are various reasons for an individual requiring extra support with eating and drinking; for instance, problems physically with getting food into the mouth, difficulty chewing and risky eating strategies (Ball et al. 2011). Eating can be understood as a vital occupation for everyone, and the actions, presentation and environment can all impact on how the occupation of eating is perceived by individuals. Eating has been defined by Clark (2007), as the ability to retain food in the mouth and the process of swallowing. The intake of food has also been defined as an essential factor related to the status of an individual’s health (Chae et al. 2018). Not only is eating essential to human functioning and nourishment for the body it also encourages social interactions and is a significant part of many cultures (Chae et al. 2018). Eating also requires effective and coordinated function of the motor, sensory and cognitive systems (Clark 2007), so it is clear to see it is a complex process despite being an everyday occupation, especially for individuals with learning disabilities. The project partner is the manager of a supported living house for individuals with learning disabilities. The purpose of this project is to conduct a literature review exploring the main issues associated with the occupation of eating for the services users. Although several were identified, two key themes were chosen from the literature to focus on: dysphagia, and the impact of the environment. Initial ideas for the project arose when the project manager was working within the service, and disparities were observed with the way support workers would support individuals. From the literature review, both general and project partner specific recommendations that can be shared were identified. Due to issues regarding communication with the project partner, the recommendations will be hypothetical, however if implemented would subsequently lead to a service development