In short: When someone is living with a serious or advanced illness, the focus often shifts to comfort and quality of life. We help adults receiving palliative care eat and drink as comfortably and safely as possible, and keep communicating with the people who matter to them. We work at home, in nursing homes and alongside palliative and hospice teams.
Swallowing and speech often change in advanced dementia, Parkinson’s disease, motor neurone disease (MND), head and neck cancer and other serious illnesses. Families may worry about coughing at meals, weight loss, or whether their loved one should still eat by mouth. A speech therapist can help everyone understand the choices and find an approach that respects the person’s wishes.
How we can help
- Comfort feeding. We suggest textures, small amounts, pacing and positioning, so meals stay enjoyable and are as safe as possible.
- Eating and drinking with acknowledged risks. When some risk can’t be avoided, we help the person, family and medical team weigh comfort and enjoyment against risk, and plan how to reduce it.
- Mouth care and comfort. We give practical advice for a dry mouth, mouth care and small tastes of favourite foods.
- Communication support. We offer simple strategies, picture or word boards and other aids, so the person can express needs, feelings and wishes, and take part in decisions.
- Guidance and training for families, carers and nursing staff. This covers mealtimes, signs to watch for and what to expect as needs change.
- Working with the care team. With consent, we keep the patient’s doctor, palliative or hospice team updated.
Who this is for
Adults with a serious or advanced illness, and their families, who want help with eating, drinking or communication, at home or in a nursing home. No referral is needed. See also Complex Dysphagia Management and Home Speech Therapy.
Common questions
Does my family member have to stop eating if there is a risk of choking or pneumonia?
Not necessarily. Many people choose to keep eating for comfort and quality of life. We explain the options and how to reduce risk, so the person, family and doctors can decide together.
Do you decide whether a feeding tube is needed?
No. That decision belongs to the person, their family and the medical team. We provide swallowing information and advice to help with that discussion.
Can you visit at home?
Yes. We visit homes and nursing homes across Singapore, and also offer online sessions for family guidance.