Eating and Drinking

Eating

You may find that if your mind is pre-occupied on something else while eating that food goes down easier.

Straws

Using bendy straws and a straw clip attached to glasses and cups gives more flexibility with the positioning of drinks and stops the straw moving about.
Using straws with a non return valve (Pat Saunders Straws) reduces the amount of suction required to drink.
Placing a drinks carton with a straw in it, in a top shirt pocket aids independence.

Utensils

Drinking soup from a cup rather than a bowl is less effort than using a spoon.
An insulated plate, cup or camping mug will keep food/drinks warm whilst you eat at your own pace.
Using a long handled fork with a serrated edge may help independence at meal times or use a spoon instead of a knife and fork.
Using a turn table at meal times means food and drink is close at hand.
A non slip mat or plate with suction attached will help to prevent movement.

Cooking

By placing a chip basket inside a pan when cooking vegetables, the boiling water need not be drained away.
Making lollipops by freezing fortified, nutritious drinks is an alternative way of comsuming calories.

Chewing gum

Chewing gum may help to produce saliva, very helpful if your mouth tends to dry up when talking.

Pureeing foods

Using an electric blender may make it possible for you to continue to eat your favourite dishes by changing the consistency of foods that you find difficult to swallow.

Tiramisu

Tiramisu available from most supermarkets is not too sweet, slips down easily and stays on the spoon.