Tube Feeding in Patients With Advanced Dementia: A Review of the Evidence

Article Abstract:

There is not much evidence that tube feeding improves the health of demented patients and it may actually be harmful. The most common method of feeding demented patients who cannot eat is to give them a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube. This tube delivers liquid food directly into the stomach. However, researchers who did a literature search could find no evidence that tube feeding is beneficial and it may even be hazardous. The best approach may be careful hand feeding if the patient will allow it. Tube feeding should be considered only when necessary.

Author: Christmas, Colleen, Finucane, Thomas E., Travis, Kathy
Evaluation, Food and nutrition, Aged patients, Elderly patients, Enteral feeding, Enteral nutrition

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A 93-year old man with advanced dementia and eating problems

Article Abstract:

The article discusses the case of a 93-year old man with advance dementia and eating problems to understand the problems with advanced dementia and suggest an effective approach.

Author: Mitchell, Susan L.
United States, Prognosis, Case study

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Subjects list: Care and treatment, Dementia
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