Co-development of a supported self-management intervention for eating, drinking and swallowing in MND

This research will co-develop an intervention to support people with MND to self-manage their eating, drinking and swallowing.

Principal Investigator: Kirsty Harrison

Lead Institution: University of East Anglia

MND Association Funding: £130,464*

Funding dates: January 2025 - September 2028

*in partnership with the National Institute for Health and Social Care Research (NIHR)

About the project

Many people living with MND experience muscle weakness that causes problems with eating, drinking and swallowing. In this study, the researchers will work closely with people living with MND, carers, healthcare professionals and the MND Association, to co-develop an approach to help with eating, drinking and swallowing. They will evaluate existing interventions, gain insights into the experiences and priorities of those living with MND, and co-develop intervention for supported self-management of eating and drinking. The goal of this project is to produce a resource that enables people living with MND to navigate eating, drinking and swallowing with as much evidence-based support as possible. By ensuring strong involvement from people living with and affected by MND throughout the project, it will ensure that the research meets the needs of people with MND.

What could this mean for MND research?

Development of an intervention that supports people to self-manage their eating, drinking and swallowing will help to give people with MND more control and empowerment over their choices and care. Providing evidence-based alternative options other than a feeding tube will help people with MND to make informed decisions. 

Project code: 2680-795