ARTICLES / General /
Understanding Dysphagia /
Other ArticlesBy:
Jeri Logemann, Ph.D., Charles A. Stewart, M.D.,
Jane Hurd, MPA,
Diane J. Aschman, MS,
Nancy L. Matthews, MA
As it turned out, Maxine did have dysphagia,
probably brought on by her Parkinson’s. But by
identifying the problem early, she was able to
improve her swallowing and go back to her busy
social life. Janice taught her exercises to
improve the strength, range of motion, speed,
and coordination of her swallowing process. She
also learned which foods are most likely to
cause choking. These can vary from one person to
another. In Maxine’s case they included anything
with vinegar and foods such as watermelon that
have both solid and liquid consistency. While
she will always need to be careful, Maxine is
back to her cheerful self, presiding over meals
and bingo games.
Charles A. Stewart, M.D.
is the Chairman of the Department of Medical Imaging
and Acting Chief Medical Officer at Rancho Los
Amigos National Rehabilitation Center, and Clinical
Associate Professor of Radiological Science at the
David Geffen-UCLA School of Medicine.
Jane Hurd, MPA, is a healthcare administrator
with experience at hospitals affiliated with both
the USC School of Medicine and David Geffen-UCLA
School of Medicine. She holds an MPA from the
University of Southern California.
Diane J. Aschman, MS, a pharmacist
entrepreneur, with over 25 years in the healthcare
industry, is President of Advancing Health LLC.
Jeri Logemann, Ph.D., is Ralph and Jean
Sundin Professor of Communication Sciences and
Disorders at Northwestern University, and Professor
of Otolaryngology and Maxillofacial Surgery and
Neurology at Northwestern University Medical School.
She has published and lectured widely both
nationally and internationally on evaluation and
treatment of swallowing disorders.
Nancy L. Matthews, MA, manager of the
Dysphagia Among Seniors in Los Angeles County:
Planning and Pilot Study (2007), has over 20 years
experience developing and managing ‘Quality of Life’
programs and services which serve the community and
currently is a lecturer at a California State
University, Long Beach.
