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4 A “word-finding kit” This could include a collection of good-quality picture and photo cards and a collection of common objects (e.g., key, pen, comb, toothbrush, watch, spoon) all kept in a snap-lock bag. We commonly use such a kit for both assessment and therapy of language. 5 Good general knowledge Good general knowledge about current affairs, sporting news, old movies, songs and actors from the bygone era; historical and cultural events which we can draw on to enhance conversations with our clients and which also form an important part of assessment and therapy. 6 A well-stocked “swallowing kit”

8 The Dysphagia Cookbook The Dysphagia Cookbook (Achilles, 2004) is an excellent resource to recommend to families and kitchen chefs who are interested in preparing creative modified meals. 9 Basic communication boards We find it useful to have copies of laminated letter-based, number-based and “yes/no” type communication boards on hand. These have proven useful when clients, family members, carers or health professionals have expressed an interest in exploring AAC options. A small whiteboard and whiteboard markers have also proven useful. 10 Patience, kindness, compassion, and adaptability Similar to working with other population groups in speech pathology, working with older persons can be at times challenging and varied. As a practice we have found that remaining patient, using kindness, and being ready to expect the unexpected have provided us with a foundation to form a strong rapport with our clients. The patience to sit quietly with someone and hear their story or assist with their meal will reap rewards, both for the client and the therapist. This is especially poignant when working in end-of-life care. Being compassionate and realistic while still supporting the client and family is essential in this setting. Maintaining a sense of humour and a genuine interest in another person’s life journey enables us to make a positive and important impact in the lives of the elderly people we meet each day. References Achilles, E., (2004). The dysphagia cookbook . Nashville, TN: Cumberland House Publishing. Bilik-Thompson, L. (2004). WALC 6 Functional language . East Moline, IL: LinguiSystems. Gangale, D. C. (2001). The source for oral-facial exercises updated and expanded . East Moline, IL: LinguiSystems. Lazzai, A. M. & Peters, P. M. (1987). Handbook of exercises for language processing . East Moline, IL: LingiSystems. Reese, P. B. (2000). The source for Alzheimer’s & dementia . East Moline, IL: LinguiSystems. Schwartz, S. K. (2004). The source for voice disorders adolescent and adult . East Moline, IL: LinguiSystems. Swigert, N. B. (2007). The source for dysphagia , 3rd ed. East Moline, IL: LinguiSystems. Swigert, N. B. (2010). The source for dysarthria , 2nd ed. East Moline, IL: LinguiSystems. Tomlin, K. J. (2007). WALC 1 Aphasia rehab . East Moline, IL: LinguiSystems. Tomlin, K. J. (2007). WALC 8 Word finding . East Moline, IL: LinguiSystems. Tomlin, K. J. (2007). WALC 10 Memory . East Moline, IL: LinguiSystems.

The contents of a standard swallowing kit could include: • tub of puree (x1) • tub of diced fruit (x1) • thickener sachets • plastic spoons • plastic cups • small plastic containers (for holding the fruit and puree once the tubs have been opened) • disposable gloves, small mirror and tongue depressor • small pen torch for oral inspection • slice of bread in a snap lock bag • small savoury biscuits in a snap lock bag (e.g., Savoy buscuits) • a banana in a snap lock bag (bananas are versatile as they can be used to assess swallowing of soft solids, mashed foods and smooth puree) • a small cooler bag to store all the items • samples of mucosa and denture treatments (e.g., Biotene and Polident). 7 Up-to-date information about diet and fluid categories, and associated handouts to provide to facilities and families Companies such as “Flavour Creations” and “Nestlé” are a good source of information and educational material. We find that having a good relationship with the representatives of such companies is very useful should we have complicated questions about thickeners or require samples. We also have produced a series of handouts for clients, which are used regularly to inform families and facilities of appropriate options concerning specific diet categories.

Correspondence to: Dr Jill Lesic

Dr Jill Lesic & Associates Speech Pathology 3/976 Riversdale Road, Surrey Hills, Vic, 3127 phone: 1300 821 148; 03 9836 8542 email: jlesic@bigpond.com website: www.jilllesicpathology.com.au

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JCPSLP Volume 17, Number 2 2015

Journal of Clinical Practice in Speech-Language Pathology