**Dysphagia and the Family**

Rebecca L. Nund, Nerina A. Scarinci, Bena Cartmill and Elizabeth C. Ward

Additional information is available at the end of the chapter

http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/60856

**1. Introduction**

The medical effects of dysphagia, including dehydration, malnutrition, and aspiration, that lead to pneumonia are well documented throughout the literature, as are the negative consequences of dysphagia on an individual's functioning and quality of life. What is less known, however, is how the family members of people with dysphagia are impacted by this condition. Understanding the issues faced by individuals who support and care for family members with dysphagia, and exploring how health professionals can best support the needs of the entire family is an important and emerging area of both research and clinical practice.
