Swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) affect safety, nutrition, and quality of life. Whether recovering from stroke, managing Parkinson's or MS, or concerned about age-related changes, expert assessment and safety protocols reduce aspiration risk whilst maintaining independence. Our hospital-trained approach combines clinical swallowing assessment, compensatory strategies (diet modifications, positioning, swallow techniques), therapeutic exercises, and comprehensive family training. We coordinate with your medical team for instrumental assessments (VFSS, FEES) when clinical evaluation indicates need for detailed visualisation. Sacha Allnatt (NZSTA #12789, 15+ years Te Whatu Ora) specialises in post-stroke dysphagia, neurological swallowing disorders, and aging-related difficulties. Gentle, safety-focused therapy from Wellington clinic or nationwide telehealth.

**Post-Stroke and Neurological Conditions:** Over 50% of stroke patients experience swallowing difficulties. Parkinson's disease, MS, and motor neurone disease also affect swallowing function. Assessment, compensatory strategies, and family training maintain safe oral intake and reduce aspiration risk. **Aging and Post-Surgical Recovery:** Age-related swallowing changes (presbyphagia) increase pneumonia risk. Head and neck surgery, thyroid procedures, and cervical spine operations can impact swallow function. Therapy supports recovery and safe eating. **Family Safety Training:** Caregivers require education in texture modification, positioning, feeding strategies, and emergency procedures. Comprehensive training ensures safe, consistent dysphagia management at home. **ACC Coverage Note:** ACC covers swallowing therapy for accident-related dysphagia (traumatic brain injury, acute stroke, treatment injury). However, dysphagia from illness, aging, or degenerative conditions isn't ACC-covered. We'll discuss funding options during assessment.