What does Diabetes have to do with Cognition and Swallowing?

Abstract

Speech-language pathologists working with adults in medical settings are likely to encounter patients with a diagnosis of diabetes mellitus on a regular basis (NCD Risk Factor Collaboration, 2016). The current literature supports an association between diabetes and mild cognitive impairment (Moreira, Soldera, Cury, Meireles, & Kupfer, 2015; Vincent & Hall, 2015). Mild impairments in executive functioning are of particular relevance in this population. Even within the range of normal cognitive abilities, reduced executive functioning can negatively impact patients’ self-management of their diabetes (and potentially adherence to therapy programs and strategies) and therefore their overall health. Mild cognitive deficits in this population are therefore clinically relevant and may warrant intervention (Vincent & Hall, 2015). Diabetic complications may also impact digestion, indirectly impacting patients’ intake and tolerance of food and drink (Borgnakke, Anderson, Shannon, & Jivanescu, 2015; Gatopoulou, Papanas, & Maltezos, 2012; Hüppe et al., 1992; Sandberg, Sundberg, Fjellstrom, & Wikblad, 2000).