[Dysphagia] chewing and DD adults

[v.cooper at sbcglobal.net (v.cooper)]

I saw a 43 yo DD adult this weekend in his ICF. He had something the Rec Therapist called "Chewlery". It is  one of those plastic springy things that you might hold your keys on. He was chewing on it and I had him open his mouth. A few inches of this "thing" was rolled up inside his mouth and since he as all his teeth, it was almost bitten off. I told the staff to take that out of his mouth because he could choke on it. They said that he does frequently "bite thru" them and they have to remove pieces from his mouth. What do you all think of this? The rec therapist is angry w/me that I dont like her "chewlery". I think it is dangerous and frankly ridiculous.

Can someone please send me some references re: the chewing behaviors of DD adults and how it frequently means there is pain from reflux. (he has SEVERE reflux).I need to talk some sense into this rec therapist before someone chokes to death. Any help most appreciated. Is there anything that they can use for chewing since they seem compelled to use something????

Virginia Cooper, MS, CCC