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This is the easy-to-read text-only version of our Supporting Consumers with Dysphagia Policy.
Download the full Supporting Consumers with Dysphagia Policy.
Mealtime and Swallowing Support at MIFWA – Easy Read
What is this page about?
This page explains how MIFWA may support consumers with meals, snacks and drinks.
It explains what MIFWA workers can and cannot do.
What is dysphagia?
- Dysphagia means a person has trouble swallowing.
- This can include trouble swallowing food, drinks or saliva.
- Dysphagia can increase the risk of choking.
- A health professional should assess and manage swallowing risks.
What is MIFWA’s role?
- MIFWA provides support with everyday activities.
- MIFWA workers are not doctors, nurses or swallowing specialists.
- Your swallowing care is your responsibility and the responsibility of your health professionals.
- MIFWA workers may help you have safe, calm and respectful mealtimes.
How can MIFWA workers support me?
- A worker may help you follow your usual mealtime routines.
- A worker may help you prepare for meals, snacks or drinks.
- A worker may help you follow your mealtime plan if you have one.
- A worker may support your choice, culture and preferences when this is safe.
- A worker may contact your nominated support person if needed.
This support must be agreed with you.
What can’t MIFWA workers do?
- MIFWA workers can’t diagnose dysphagia.
- MIFWA workers can’t provide swallowing therapy.
- MIFWA workers can’t decide what foods or drinks are safe for you.
- MIFWA workers can’t create or change mealtime plans.
- MIFWA workers can’t provide medical treatment.
When should workers ask for help?
- If you have trouble swallowing and there is no plan.
- If your swallowing seems to change.
- If you cough, choke or have a near miss during meals or drinks.
- If your mealtime plan is missing, out of date, unclear or hard to follow safely.
- If a worker is worried about your safety.
What happens in an emergency?
- Choking is an emergency.
- If a worker thinks there is a serious and immediate risk to your safety, they may call emergency services.
- If there is an emergency, call 000.
Contact us
You can contact us anytime. If you need help asking for support, please call us on 9237 8900 or email us at info@mifwa.org.au.
If there is immediate danger, call 000.