The Journal of the American Geriatrics Society (JAGS) recently published an article entitled Effects of Device-Facilitated Isometric Progressive Resistance Oropharyngeal Therapy on Swallowing and Health-Related Outcomes in Older Adults with Dysphagia. 

The article discusses a effects of a study during which 56 patients with dysphagia completed lingual strengthening using the device by Swallow Solutions. It discusses the positive impact the therapy has on health outcomes, as well as significant cost-savings for facilities.

Here are the highlights:

Patients health and wellbeing were followed for up to 17 months.

Decreased pneumonia diagnoses. Incidence of pneumonia decreased 67%. 

Decreased hospital admissions. Hospital admissions decreased 61%. 

Patients increased lingual strength. Swallowing disorders occur in older patients due, at least in part, to weakening lingual musculature. After 8 weeks, patients were significantly stronger. As they became stronger, patients reported that they had less difficulty swallowing and improved quality of life.

They noted increased desire for food, improved mental health, improved social wellbeing, and less fatigue.

Decreased bed days, cost savings. Bed days decreased 56% resulting in overall savings of over one million dollars. 

The results speak for themselves. Lingual strengthening using the Swallow Solutions device works. 

The full study is available here.