AOTA

Patricia C. Swiech, OTD, OTR/L

Staff Therapist

Skilled Nursing Facility, East Longmeadow, MA

Allison Sullivan, OT, DOT, OTR

OTD Program Coordinator & Associate Professor

Division of Occupational Therapy. American International College. Springfield, MA

Christine Helfrich, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA

Associate Professor

Division of Occupational Therapy, American International College, Springfield, MA

Abstract
Self-feeding is a basic life skill throughout the life span. Individuals may experience cognitive and physical changes as they age that can impact their ability to independently self-feed. Self-feeding is an ADL within the scope of practice of occupational therapy that can be assessed and modified to maximize independence. This article provides occupational therapy practitioners with information and evidence-based practice recommendations for positioning, adaptive equipment, liquid/diet modifications, physical/verbal assistance, and education of caregivers when addressing self-feeding with adults.

Learning Objectives

1. Describe the safe positions for self-feeding based on a seating system (e.g., bed, wheelchair, chair)

2. Differentiate between a variety of diet/liquid modifications and the use of descriptions and visuals

3. Determine the proper use and potential benefits of adaptive equipment

4. State how to effectively assist adults both physically and verbally during self-feeding to maximize independence and reduce caregiver burden

5. Describe how to support caregiver education (family and nursing staff) on the use and purpose of adaptive equipment, how to assist individuals during self-feeding, and how to maintain safety during self-feeding tasks