Chin-Down Posture vs Thickened Liquid Diet for Aspiration Prevention in Parkinson's Disease and Dementia

This study focuses on finding the best way to prevent liquid aspiration and aspiration pneumonia in patients with Parkinson's disease and/or dementia. Liquid aspiration is common in older populations, particularly those dealing with debilitation, dementia, and depression. It can lead to pneumonia, which is a significant cause of death in the US among individuals aged 65 and over. Currently, two methods are used to manage this issue: chin-down posture during swallowing and the use of thickened liquids in the diet. However, there's no clear evidence favoring one method over the other, which is why this research is important. In this Phase III study, participants are randomly assigned to either the chin-down position group or the thickened liquid diet group, based on their swallowing function during a modified barium swallow test. The study will recruit patients over a three-year period, with each patient's participation lasting no more than three months. The study aims to determine which of these two interventions is more effective in preventing aspiration and aspiration pneumonia.