Speech Talk

Choking is one of those moments where everything goes from normal to crisis in seconds—but how well are we actually measuring that risk? In this episode of Speech Talk, Emily and Eva break down the integrative review “Dying for a Meal” to explore what really contributes to choking across populations. From who is most at risk to the foods most commonly involved, the research reveals that choking isn’t always as straightforward as we think—and dysphagia isn’t always the main factor. We dive into five key prevention strategies, including mealtime modifications, oral health, medication management, interdisciplinary care, and system-level training. But beyond the strategies, we tackle the bigger question: how do we balance safety with autonomy? Because when it comes to choking risk, it’s not just about what’s on the plate—it’s everything around it Citations Hemsley, B., Steel, J., Sheppard, J. J., Malandraki, G. A., Bryant, L., & Balandin, S. (2019). Dying for a Meal: An Integrative Review of Characteristics of Choking Incidents and Recommendations to Prevent Fatal and Nonfatal Choking Across Populations. American journal of speech-language pathology, 28(3), 1283–1297. https://doi.org/10.1044/2018_AJSLP-18-0150 -This article link contains the choking risk scale for use in your practice! Get in Touch: [email protected] Or Visit Us At: ⁠www.SpeechTalkPod.com⁠  Instagram: @speechtalkpod Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Research is supposed to guide our practice—but what happens when we can’t actually access it? In this episode of Speech Talk, Eva and Emily get into the reality of paywalled research and what it means for evidence-based practice in speech-language pathology. Breaking down the article “The Effect of Open Access on Scholarly and Societal Metrics of Impact in the ASHA Journals,” they explore how access (or lack of it) shapes who reads, shares, and applies research. From citation counts to social media reach, the data is clear: the more accessible the research, the greater its impact. But with thousands of articles still behind paywalls, clinicians are often left out of the conversation. This episode gets real about the barriers SLPs face—and why making research more accessible isn’t just convenient, it’s essential for better patient care. Citations Long, H. L., Drown, L., & El Amin, M. (2023). The effect of open access on scholarly and societal metrics of impact in the ASHA journals. Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research, 66(5), 1784–1796. https://doi.org/10.1044/2022_JSLHR-22-00315 ASHA website for free resource links! https://www.asha.org/siteassets/uploadedfiles/asha/research/ebp/finding-free-access-research.pdf Get in Touch: [email protected] Or Visit Us At: ⁠www.SpeechTalkPod.com⁠  Instagram: @speechtalkpod Part of the⁠ Human Content⁠ Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Does a “wet” voice really mean your patient is aspirating? In this episode, Eva and Emily unpack research that challenges one of the most common clinical signs used in dysphagia assessment, wet vocal quality. Turns out, what we’ve been trained to hear might not be as reliable as we think. The need for instrumentals hasn't gone away, but the biggest national providers of mobile FEEs has...So what happens when we know we can’t solely rely on bedside exams and access to gold standard tools is limited? Let's talk about it. Citations: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. (n.d.). Skilled nursing facility consolidated billing. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.cms.gov/medicare/coding-billing/skilled-nursing-facility-snf-consolidated-billing American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. (2023). The case for FEES in skilled nursing facilities. https://leader.pubs.asha.org/do/10.1044/leader.OTP.28072023.fees-snf-slp.36/full/ Weldon, K., Kelchner, L., Silbert, N., & Rule, D. W. (2023). Listening for dysphagia: Voice quality sequelae of material in the airway. Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research. https://doi.org/10.1044/2022_JSLHR-22-0012 Get in Touch: [email protected] Or Visit Us At: ⁠www.SpeechTalkPod.com⁠  Instagram: @speechtalkpod Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thickened liquids are one of the most common recommendations in dysphagia management—but are they always the safest option? In this episode of Speech Talk, Emily and Eva review The Adverse Effects and Events of Thickened Liquid Use in Adults: A Systematic Review and dig into the real evidence behind thickened liquids. We talk aspiration risk, dehydration, pneumonia, quality of life, and why dysphagia management is rarely as simple as “just thicken it.” From the proxy problem in aspiration research to free water protocols and real-world SNF decision-making, this conversation explores why thickened liquids can help some patients, harm others, and almost always require careful clinical judgment. Because when it comes to dysphagia management… thickened liquids are complicated. Citations Abrams, S. W., Gandhi, P., & Namasivayam-MacDonald, A. M. (2023). The adverse effects and events of thickened liquid use in adults: A systematic review. American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology. https://doi.org/10.1044/2023_AJSLP-22-00380 Get in Touch: [email protected] Or Visit Us At: ⁠www.SpeechTalkPod.com⁠  Instagram: @speechtalkpod Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does evidence-based practice look like when the disease is progressive, fatal, and relentlessly complex? This week on Speech Talk, Emily and Eva discuss clinical management of Huntington’s disease in long-term and residential care settings. Using a comprehensive 2007 primer for speech-language pathologists, we explore dysphagia progression, dysarthria, AAC challenges, behavioral supports, staff training, and the importance of early education. We also reflect on real-world clinical decision making with a late-stage patient — including thickened liquids, unintelligible speech, low-tech and high tech AAC, impulsivity, weight loss, and the emotional weight of progressive decline. Because sometimes evidence-based practice isn’t about fixing — it’s about guiding, adapting, and supporting with intention. Note to our listeners: Your headphones are not broken, the audio on this episode is a little funky (all Emily's fault). It is still worth a listen and we promise it won't happen again :) Citations Klasner, E. R., & Yorkston, K. M. (2007). A primer for speech-language pathologists managing clients with Huntington’s disease in a residential care facility. Perspectives on Neurophysiology and Neurogenic Speech and Language Disorders, 17(2), 59–64. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4958906/ George Huntington (1872). On chorea. The Medical and Surgical Reporter. Huntington’s Disease Society of America. History of Huntington’s Disease. https://hdsa.org/what-is-hd/history-and-genetics-of-huntingtons-disease/history-of-huntingtons-disease/ BBC News. (2024). Experimental gene therapy slows progression of Huntington’s disease. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cevz13xkxpro Mentioned websites: Dysphagiaoutreach.org Get in Touch: [email protected] Or Visit Us At: ⁠www.SpeechTalkPod.com⁠  Instagram: @speechtalkpod Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Speech Talk, Emily and Eva dive into cervical osteophytes (aka bone spurs in the neck) and how they can mechanically impact swallowing. We break down what osteophytes are, why they form, and how they can present just like “typical” dysphagia — globus, coughing, choking, wet vocal quality — but may gradually worsen over time. We talk about imaging (Because how else would we even know it’s there!?), conservative management strategies like texture modification and suprasubglottic swallow, and when a surgical consult might be appropriate. Citations Bakshi, S. S., & Ramesh, S. (2021). Cervical osteophytes causing dysphagia: A case report. The American Journal of the Medical Sciences, 361(5), e43. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amjms.2020.10.014 Lyrtzis, C., Poutoglidis, A., Stamati, A., Lazaridis, N., & Paraskevas, G. (2024). A case of dysphagia due to large osteophytic lesions in the cervical spine: A conservative approach. Cureus, 16(4), e59011. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.59011 Egerter, A. C., Kim, E. S., Lee, D. J., Liu, J. J., Cadena, G., Panchal, R. R., & Kim, K. D. (2015). Dysphagia secondary to anterior osteophytes of the cervical spine: A retrospective case series and literature review. Global Spine Journal, 5(5), e78–e83. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0035-1546954 Park, B. J., Gold, C. J., Piscopo, A., Schwickerath, L., Bathla, G., Chieng, L.-O., Yamaguchi, S., & Hitchon, P. W. (2021). Outcomes and complications of surgical treatment of anterior osteophytes causing dysphagia: A single center experience. Clinical Neurology and Neurosurgery, 207, 106814. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clineuro.2021.106814 Melbourne Swallow Analysis Centre. (n.d.). Cervical osteophytes and dysphagia. Retrieved February 13, 2026, from https://www.melbswallow.com.au/resources/cervical-osteophytes-and-dysphagia/ HealthCentral. (n.d.). Osteophytes (bone spurs). Retrieved February 13, 2026, from https://www.healthcentral.com/condition/spondylosis/osteophytes-bone-spurs Get in Touch: [email protected] Or Visit Us At: ⁠www.SpeechTalkPod.com⁠  Instagram: @speechtalkpod Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do we decide what to treat—and how—as dementia progresses? In this episode of Speech Talk, Emily and Eva break down the article Staging and Treatment Frameworks for Dementia Management by Mason-Baughman, Raupp, and Corman. We review how dementia is staged clinically, how those stages show up in communication and daily function, and what evidence-based treatment actually looks like across early, middle, and late stages. We walk through practical interventions for each stage—from compensatory strategies and functional maintenance in early dementia, to environmental supports and caregiver collaboration in moderate stages, to sensory-based and Montessori-informed approaches in late-stage dementia. We also discuss testing frameworks, documentation strategies, and how staging can guide ethical, realistic goal setting in long-term care. If you work with patients with dementia (especially in LTC or SNFs), this episode offers a clear, stage-based roadmap for treatment that supports dignity, function, and quality of life. Citations:Mason-Baughman, M. B., Raupp, S., & Corman, K. (2016). Staging and treatment frameworks for dementia management. Perspectives of the ASHA Special Interest Groups, 1(SIG 15), 53–62. https://pubs.asha.org/doi/10.1044/persp1.SIG15.53 Get in Touch: [email protected] Or Visit Us At: ⁠www.SpeechTalkPod.com⁠  Instagram: @speechtalkpod Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Up to 80% of patients treated for oropharyngeal head and neck cancer experience swallowing dysfunction—but what if we intervened before impairment starts? In this episode of Speech Talk, Eva and Emily break down the evidence behind prehabilitation for head and neck cancer, drawing from the literature review by Loewen et al. We unpack what prehab actually is, how swallowing therapy before and during treatment can preserve function, and why prevention is becoming central to dysphagia care. We cover evidence-based swallowing exercises, dosing considerations, nutrition and psychosocial support, patient education, and real-world clinical takeaways—including why timing matters more than you think. If you work with HNC patients (or want to), this episode will shift how you think about dysphagia intervention timelines. Citations: Loewen, I., et al. (2020). Prehabilitation for head and neck cancer patients: A systematic review. Current Oncology, 27(4), e382–e395. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7789666/ Get in Touch: [email protected] Or Visit Us At: ⁠www.SpeechTalkPod.com⁠  Instagram: @speechtalkpod Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Traumatic brain injury isn’t just a young‑guy‑playing‑sports problem. This week on Speech Talk, we’re diving into TBI in older adults—a population with the highest rates of hospitalization, morbidity, and mortality related to brain injury. Using the ASHA review Traumatic Brain Injury in Older Adults: Epidemiology, Etiology, Rehabilitation, and Outcomes, we break down why TBIs are so common (and so often missed) in geriatrics, especially in SNFs and hospital settings. From falls and car accidents without a concussion diagnosis, to chronic health conditions and polypharmacy, this episode connects the dots between normal aging and TBI‑related cognitive‑communication changes. We talk through what TBIs actually look like in older adults, how to tell aging apart from injury, what assessments clinicians are really using in rehab, and how functional, fall‑focused, real‑world therapy can make a difference. If you’ve ever felt underprepared when a “no concussion noted” patient suddenly isn’t making sense—this one’s for you. Citations:Most of today’s data comes from a 2022 ASHA review synthesizing multiple large epidemiologic studies on traumatic brain injury in older adults. Mattingly, E., & Roth, C. R. (2022). Traumatic brain injury in older adults: Epidemiology, etiology, rehabilitation, and outcomes. Perspectives of the ASHA Special Interest Groups, 7(3), 648–662. https://doi.org/10.1044/2022_PERSP-21-00129 Albrecht, J. S., McCunn, M., Stein, D. M., Simoni-Wastila, L., & Smith, G. S. (2016). Sex differences in mortality following isolated traumatic brain injury among older adults. Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery, 81(3), 486–492. https://doi.org/10.1097/TA.0000000000001104 Taylor, C. A., Bell, J. M., Breiding, M. J., & Xu, L. (2017). Traumatic brain injury–related emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and deaths—United States, 2007 and 2013. MMWR Surveillance Summaries, 66(9), 1–16. https://doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.ss6609a1 Fu, W. W., Fu, T. S., Jing, R., McFaull, S. R., & Cusimano, M. D. (2017). Predictors of falls and mortality among elderly adults with traumatic brain injury: A nationwide, population-based study. PLOS ONE, 12(4), e0175868. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0175868 Bhullar, I. S., Roberts, E. E., Brown, L., & Lipe, H. (2010). The effect of age on blunt traumatic brain-injured patients. The American Surgeon, 76(9), 966–968. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20836344/ Get in Touch:[email protected] Instagram: @speechtalkpod Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Speech Talk, we’re breaking down two of our favorite fast and evidence-backed dysphagia screeners: the TOMASS and the Yale Swallow Protocol. If you’ve ever been buried in a busy SNF day and wished for a quick but reliable way to check someone’s swallow, this episode is your new best friend. We walk you through how each tool works, what the research says, and why a simple cracker and a cup of water can give you so much clinically relevant information. You’ll hear practical tips for saving time, collaborating with nursing and OT, knowing when NOT to use these screeners, and using the results to support stronger documentation and referrals. Grab a saltine, pull up your badge buddy, and let’s talk about dysphagia screening you can actually use in your practice. CitationsTodaro, F., Pizzorni, N., Scarponi, L., Ronzoni, C., Huckabee, M. L., & Schindler, A. (2021). The Test of Masticating and Swallowing Solids (TOMASS): Reliability and validity in patients with dysphagia. International journal of language & communication disorders, 56(3), 558–566. https://doi.org/10.1111/1460-6984.12613 Suiter, D. M., Sloggy, J., & Leder, S. B. (2014). Validation of the Yale Swallow Protocol: a prospective double-blinded videofluoroscopic study. Dysphagia, 29(2), 199–203. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00455-013-9488-3  Get in Touch: [email protected] Or Visit Us At: www.SpeechTalkPod.com Instagram: @speechtalkpod Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Productivity: the push button topic in the SNF world. If you’ve ever felt torn between what’s ethical and what’s expected, this episode will hit home. Instead of a research article, we dive into Akyko S. West’s dissertation on productivity requirements and moral distress in SNF rehab therapists (SLPs, PTs, OTs, RTs, and their assistants). This paper READS like every conversation we’ve had in break rooms for yearsss. We get real about navigating profit-driven healthcare, maintaining integrity, advocating for yourself, and knowing when to walk away. Citation: https://www.proquest.com/openview/0bd846d6fcbbeac4fd83aceacabfb8a7/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750&diss=y Get in Touch: [email protected] Or Visit Us At: ⁠www.SpeechTalkPod.com⁠  Instagram: @speechtalkpod Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We break down the Dysphagia Outcome and Severity Scale (DOSS)—a 7-point scale created to bring consistency, clarity, and objective severity ratings to dysphagia evals. We dig into the original 1999 article, why the scale was developed, and how SLPs can use it to support documentation, payor justification, and person-centered goal writing. Citation: Dysphagia Outcome and Severity Scale (DOSS)O’Neil, K. H., Purdy, M., Falk, J., & Gallo, L. (2014). The Dysphagia Outcome and Severity Scale. The ASHA Leader. https://leader.pubs.asha.org/doi/full/10.1044/leader.FTR1.19062014.36 Get in Touch: [email protected] Or Visit Us At: ⁠www.SpeechTalkPod.com⁠  Instagram: @speechtalkpod Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How likely is someone with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) to develop dementia down the line? In this episode, we’re digging into two key studies that explore how different types of MCI—amnesic, non-amnesic, and multi-domain—relate to the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Breaking down what the data says, what tests matter most, and what we can actually say when patients ask, “So… am I going to have dementia?” This one’s all about making sense of cognitive subtypes, connecting research to real-world evaluation and discharge planning, and keeping our patient education rooted in evidence (and compassion). Citations: Kosmidis, M. (2018). Visual memory tests enhance the identification of amnestic MCI cases at greater risk of Alzheimer's disease. International Psychogeriatrics. https://doi.org/10.1017/S104161021800145X Serrano, C. M., Dillon, C., Leis, A., Taragano, F. E., & Allegri, R. F. (2013). Mild cognitive impairment: risk of dementia according to subtypes. Actas espanolas de psiquiatria, 41(6), 330–339. Get in Touch: [email protected] Or Visit Us At: ⁠www.SpeechTalkPod.com⁠  Instagram: @speechtalkpod Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How gross is puree? This week, we’re talking about dysphagia and food presentation. We looked at a study that compared how patients felt about molded versus un-molded purees (spoiler: looks matter, but taste still wins). We’ll talk about how this ties into patient intake, quality of life, and what we actually can do about it in real-world settings—especially when we're not running the kitchen. Grab your scoop molds and let's dig in. Articles Cited: Wright, L., Cotter, D., & Hickson, M. (2005). The effectiveness of food presentation on intake and nutritional status in elderly patients with dysphagia. Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, 18(6), 321–326. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-277X.2005.00635.x  Get in Touch: [email protected] Or Visit Us At: ⁠www.SpeechTalkPod.com⁠  Instagram: @speechtalkpodPart of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we’re diving into the world of AI and how it’s showing up in speech-language pathology. We looked at two articles—one on using AI to rate dysarthria severity, and another on using ChatGPT to help make therapy materials. We’ll break down the basics of machine learning and deep learning, talk about what works (and what’s still kind of clunky), and share how we’ve been using these tools in real-life sessions. Whether you’re AI-curious or already experimenting, this one’s for you. Citations: Al-Ali, A., Al-Maadeed, S., Saleh, M., Naidu, R. C., Alex, Z. C., Ramachandran, P., Khoodeeram, R., & Kumar, R. M. (2024). The detection of dysarthria severity levels using AI models: A review. IEEE Access, 12, 48223–48238. https://doi.org/10.1109/ACCESS.2024.3382574 American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. (2024). Using ChatGPT to create therapy materials: What SLPs need to know. https://leader.pubs.asha.org/do/10.1044/leader.EOAI.29032024.chatgbt-therapy-materials-slp.26/ful ASHA Symposium: https://pubs.asha.org/doi/10.1044/2024_JSLHR-24-00594 Get in Touch: [email protected] Or Visit Us At: ⁠www.SpeechTalkPod.com⁠  Instagram: @speechtalkpod Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The EAT-10 is a quick self-assessment tool used in dysphagia screening, but how valid is it really? In this episode, Eva and Emily break down a study by Möller et al. that evaluates both the structural and clinical validity of the EAT-10—and what that means for your practice. Plus, we introduce a free Badge Buddy resource to help you screen more efficiently. Freebies: Eat-10/Section K Badge Buddy Print this out, laminate, and attach to your work badge! Articles Cited: Möller R, Safa S, Östberg P. A prospective study for evaluation of structural and clinical validity of the Eating Assessment Tool. BMC Geriatr. 2020 Aug 5;20(1):269. doi: 10.1186/s12877-020-01654-0. PMID: 32758137; PMCID: PMC7405447. Get in Touch: [email protected] Or Visit Us At: ⁠www.SpeechTalkPod.com⁠  Instagram: @speechtalkpod Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Eva and Emily as they explore whether hearing loss contributes to dementia. They break down key research, including the ACHIEVE study, and share insights for clinical practice. Learn how SLPs can advocate for hearing screenings, support social engagement, and recognize when cognitive changes might actually be related to hearing. Plus, real stories from the field and thoughtful discussion about patient quality of life. Articles Cited: Lin, F. R., Metter, E. J., O'Brien, R. J., Resnick, S. M., Zonderman, A. B., & Ferrucci, L. (2011). Hearing loss and incident dementia. Archives of Neurology, 68(2), 214–220. https://doi.org/10.1001/archneurol.2010.362 Johns Hopkins Medicine. Hearing Loss and Dementia. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/hearing-loss/hearing-loss-and-dementia The ACHIEVE Study. National Institute on Aging. https://agingresearchbiobank.nia.nih.gov/studies/achieve Get in Touch: [email protected] Or Visit Us At: ⁠www.SpeechTalkPod.com⁠  Instagram: @speechtalkpod Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Speech Talk, Eva and Emily explore how GERD impacts swallowing, nutrition, and patient care in skilled nursing facilities. Learn how to recognize GERD-related symptoms, advocate for proper referrals, educate CNAs, and navigate precautions like posture and diet modifications. With clinical research and personal stories, they break down practical steps SLPs can take to make a difference in GERD management—without overstepping scope. Articles Referenced: Revicki, D. A., Wood, M., Maton, P. N., & Sorensen, S. (1998). The impact of gastroesophageal reflux disease on health-related quality of life. The American Journal of Medicine, 104(3), 252–258. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0002-9343(97)00354-9 Abraham, B. P., & Gulati, N. (2022). Proton pump inhibitors: Risks and benefits. Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine, 89(12), 700–703. https://doi.org/10.3949/ccjm.89a.22059 Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved May 25, 2025, from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/proton-pump-inhibitors Get in Touch: [email protected] Or Visit Us At: ⁠www.SpeechTalkPod.com⁠  Instagram: @speechtalkpod Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we’re diving into one of the murkiest waters of SLP practice: cognitive interventions for people with dementia. When you hear “Well, can’t you just work on following directions?”—do you cry inside? Same. That’s why we’re unpacking a meta-analysis to give you the research-backed confidence to stand your ground. We reviewed “Do cognitive interventions improve general cognition in dementia? A meta-analysis and meta-regression” by Huntley et al. to understand what works, what doesn’t, and what’s still unclear when it comes to treating dementia in a meaningful way. Spoiler alert: only treatment shown to have a positive impact on standardized testing, but there’s still a long way to go when it comes to proving quality-of-life improvements. Articles Referenced: Huntley, J.D., et al. Do cognitive interventions improve general cognition in dementia? A meta-analysis and meta-regression. BMJ Open, 2015 Get in Touch: [email protected] Or Visit Us At: ⁠www.SpeechTalkPod.com⁠  Instagram: @speechtalkpod Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Get ready to brush up on your oral care knowledge! 🦷 In this episode, Emily and Eva explore the world of oral hygiene products in SNF care—what works, what doesn’t, and what might actually be harmful. Whether you're an SLP, nurse, OT, or just really into responsible toothbrushing, listen up because this was made for you! We break down the findings of the article “Hospital Mouth: Dental Aids May Cause Dental Erosion” by Meurman et al., which tested the impact of common oral care tools on dental health. Spoiler: not all swabs are created equal. Learn what to watch for in your patients with limited oral control, dry mouth, or persistent open oral posture, and how to adapt your practice with safety and dignity in mind. You’ll learn:  The pros and cons of different oral care products used in medical settings  Why lemon-glycerin swabs might be more harmful than helpful  How to adapt oral care routines for patients with dysphagia or reduced oral motor control  How repeated exposure to citric acid can affect dental surfaces  Creative ways to make oral care a functional part of dysphagia therapy  Tips for collaborating with nursing and occupational therapy  How to advocate for safer, patient-centered oral care supplies Articles Cited: Meurman, J.H. et al. Hospital Mouth: Dental Aids May Cause Dental Erosion. Freebie: Glycerin Swab In Service: Easily explain the benefits and differences between different types of oral care products! Share the usefulness of oral care tools and best practices easily with your team.  Get in Touch: [email protected] Or Visit Us At: ⁠www.SpeechTalkPod.com⁠  Instagram: @speechtalkpod Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we dive into the importance of interdisciplinary communication and how tools like SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation) can enhance patient safety and care quality. We explore findings from the research article "Impact of the communication and patient hand-off tool SBAR on patient safety: a systematic review" by Stock et al., and discuss how structured communication positively impacts teamwork, especially during handoffs and phone-based interactions. We’ll also break down practical, real-world tips for clinicians to initiate referrals, recognize red flags, and collaborate more effectively across disciplines. If you’ve ever wondered when to phone a friend in healthcare—or how to make sure your message gets through—this one’s for you. Articles Referenced: Stock, R. et al. Impact of the communication and patient hand-off tool SBAR on patient safety: a systematic review. Freebies! SBAR In Service: Use this to explain and describe rationale for the communication form for yourself or other disciplines! This can be particularly helpful if you have suffered from communication break-downs previously to help your facility implement systematic ways to send and receive information.  SBAR Fillable Form: Use this form to frame your communication with the interdisciplinary team in your facility! SBAR is outlined in a concise format to help you document changes in your patient to the proper channels while allowing you to physically document your communications.  Get in Touch: [email protected] Or Visit Us At: ⁠www.SpeechTalkPod.com⁠  Instagram: @speechtalkpod Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does your oral mech exam really tell you? In this episode of Speech Talk, Eva and Emily get down and dirty (with tongue depressors, not drama) and explore why the phrase 'say ahh' is so iconic. They cover what is a normal oral cavity for our geri crowd, how to link findings to clinical hypotheses, and how to improve your diagnostic skills even when patients can’t cooperate as much as you might like.  If you’ve ever opened someone's mouth and wondered “...Is that normal?” This one’s for you You’ll learn: What the oral mech exam actually reveals (and what it doesn’t) Common pitfalls: symmetry obsession, passive exams, and more How to link oral mech findings to real clinical hypotheses Normal vs …Definitely not normal oral structures Why “ahh” is more than just a sound Articles Referenced: • ⁠Oral Health and Swallowing by Furuta and Yamashita⁠ Freebies: • Oral Hygiene Protocol: Use this to get conversations rolling on best practices in oral care. Discuss this with the nurses and CNA to ensure that they know who and when to complete referrals to therapy as well as the importance of consistent oral hygiene.  Get in Touch: [email protected] Or Visit Us At: ⁠www.SpeechTalkPod.com⁠  Instagram: @speechtalkpod Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI): what it is, how it shows up, and what SLPs can actually do about it. In this episode, Emily and Eva break down how MCI differs from moderate and advanced dementia, how to approach screening, and how to design meaningful therapy when patients are still “too high” for traditional treatment plans. They share practical ideas for early intervention, motivational interviewing, and supporting independence—all with their signature mix of science and sass. This episode is your crash course on being a better advocate for patients who fall through the cracks. You’ll learn: How to tell the difference between MCI and early dementia Practical ideas for meaningful therapy when patients seem “too high” How to screen effectively and choose the right cognitive tools Functional treatment approaches for independence and safety Why motivational interviewing belongs in your SLP toolkit How to advocate for patients who mask their deficits  Articles Cited:  ⁠Comparative Efficacy of Seven Nonpharmacological Interventions on Global Cognition of Older Adults with and without Mild Cognitive impairment A Network Meta-analysis of Randomized Control Trials by Seok, J. W., Kim et. al⁠ Get in Touch: [email protected] Or Visit Us At: ⁠www.SpeechTalkPod.com⁠  Instagram: @speechtalkpod Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

To PEG or not to PEG? In this episode of Speech Talk, Emily and Eva confront the clinical gray zones around percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube placements in older adults. They unpack what PEG tubes actually do (and don’t do), their potential impact on malnutrition and aspiration pneumonia, and how to talk to families and care teams when emotions and ethics collide. You’ll also learn how to interpret key research on PEG tube outcomes and what guidelines say about feeding tubes in dementia. No guilt, no judgment—just smart, compassionate guidance from two SLPs who’ve had those hard conversations many times before. You’ll learn: What PEG tubes actually do—and what they don’t The research around PEG tubes and aspiration pneumonia How malnutrition, cognitive status, and goals of care intersect Conversation strategies for talking PEG with families and teams What professional guidelines say about PEG tubes in dementia How to navigate tricky ethical ground without losing compassion Articles Cited: ⁠Rahnemai-Azar et. al. “Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy: Indications, technique, complications and management⁠ Freebies: PEG Tube Badge Buddy Get in Touch: [email protected] Or Visit Us At: ⁠www.SpeechTalkPod.com⁠  Instagram: @speechtalkpod Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In honor of National Aphasia Awareness Month, we’re diving into a practical and research-supported tool that every clinician should know about—the Quick Aphasia Battery (QAB). If you’ve ever felt a little rusty when it comes to aphasia evaluation and treatment, this episode is for you. We break down the research by Lucanie et al., explain how the QAB can save you time while giving you a multidimensional view of language function, and discuss how to use it for goal writing and bridging the gap between screening and full evaluation. Plus, we reflect on why accessible, efficient tools like the QAB are exactly what clinicians need in fast-paced environments. You’ll learn: What aphasia is and how it affects communication The 8 subtests included in the Quick Aphasia Battery (QAB) How to use QAB results for goal setting and clinical documentation Limitations and considerations when using the QAB Where to access the QAB materials and automated scoring spreadsheet Articles Cited: Lucanie, M. et al. A Quick Aphasia Battery for Efficient, Reliable, and Multidimensional Assessment of Language Function.⁠ Resources: ⁠Quick Aphasia Battery Test Forms⁠ ⁠Quick Aphasia Battery Scoring Get in Touch: [email protected] Or Visit Us At: ⁠www.SpeechTalkPod.com⁠  Instagram: @speechtalkpod Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dentures, dysphagia, and swallowing safety — how do they all connect? In this first episode of Speech Talk, speech-language pathologists Eva Johnson and Emily Brady dive deep into the world of speech therapy for older adults, focusing on oral phase dysphagia, denture fit, and swallowing disorders in medically complex patients. Perfect for SLPs, SLP grad students, and anyone interested in speech therapy, aging, and oral health, this episode sets the tone for a show that’s research-driven, patient-focused, and deeply relatable. You’ll learn: What current research says about removable dentures and swallowing efficiency How denture use impacts oral sensitivity and aspiration risk Why proper oral care and denture hygiene matter more than ever Clinical tips for bedside SLP evaluations Funny but educational stories from real patient encounters Articles Cited: The Effects of Removable Dentures on Swallowing” by Dae-Sik Son et al. Futura and Yamashita titled “Oral Health and Swallowing Problems Freebie:  Denture In service Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eva and Emily dig into the intersection of cognitive impairment and medication management in older adults. Based on the study by Gorodesky et al., they explore how common cognitive errors—like perception failures and rule-based mistakes—impact a patient’s ability to read pill bottles, open containers, and organize medications. With hilarious patient stories and a toolbox of clinical tips (including the infamous pill-sorting task), this episode delivers realistic strategies for assessing med adherence, involving caregivers, and preventing rehospitalization. This one’s a must-listen for SLPs in skilled nursing, rehab, or any transitional care setting. Article Referenced: Medication self-management skills and cognitive impairment in older adults hospitalized for heart failure” by Gorodeski et al. Freebie: Medication Management Assessment & In Service Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Two speech-language pathologists walk into a podcast. There’s no punchline, but for some reason we’re still laughing. Emily and Eva embark on reading the research so you don’t have to. If you’ve ever squinted at a pillbox, questioned your own functional goals, or wondered how to sneak more clinical education into your life without actually reading a journal article… we got ya! New episodes every other week-ish. Probably while you’re eating lunch in your car. — Get in Touch: [email protected] Or Visit Us At: www.SpeechTalkPod.com Produced by: Human Content Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices