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Eating is more than just taking in nutrients. For many people, it is a joy, and sharing food or drinks is a natural way to connect with others. When illness or aging makes swallowing difficult, that joy can fade. If this happens to ourselves or our loved ones, most of us still hope to “eat by mouth if possible” and to help our family do the same. To make that possible, appropriate support is essential. In addition to selecting food that is easy to swallow, the type of spoon also plays an important role. In this article, I introduce the K-Spoon, a care spoon designed with dysphagia in mind, drawing on insights from its patent specification and my own experience. Note: This article is based on the author’s personal views and independent research. It does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information. Product purchases or use should always be at your own judgment and responsibility. Some product links in this article may be affiliate links (PR).

Explore semisolid enteral nutrition formulas: their benefits, common challenges, and patent-based innovations for safer, more comfortable tube feeding.

Discover the Bedsore Nurse Repositioning Pad, designed with Fusion® 3D fabric to reduce caregiver burden and improve comfort.

In healthcare and long-term care settings, “positioning” is essential to prevent pressure injuries (pressure ulcers) in people who cannot move independently. Positioning means keeping the body in an appropriate posture to reduce pressure and shear, thereby maintaining comfort. Among commonly used methods is the 30° lateral position (30° tilt). In practice, however, relatively few people apply it correctly. I myself used to perform it based on a vague understanding. However, continuing to do so can invite unintended risks. This article explains the significance and pitfalls of the 30° lateral position, fundamentals of pressure injuries, and a cushion—the Bananafit Small Flow Type—which appears useful for repositioning; my discussion draws on related patent filings.

Pneumonia is one of the leading causes of death in Japan. While many associate pneumonia with COVID-19, aspiration pneumonia has a different cause. Aspiration pneumonia occurs when food, liquids, or saliva mistakenly enter the airway, causing inflammation. According to data from Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, more than 60,000 people died of aspiration pneumonia in 2022—surpassing the annual death toll from COVID-19. With Japan’s aging population, this number is expected to rise further. As a result, oral function and aspiration prevention have become essential concerns in elderly care and nursing. In previous posts, I have introduced products aimed at reducing aspiration risk. This time, I’d like to introduce “Isotonic Jelly”, a jelly drink we recently tried in our facility to support alternating swallowing. I’ll share our practical experiences and discuss key characteristics of easy-to-swallow jellies based on relevant patent information.