As a caregiver, I have worked with patients who have difficulty swallowing. Here is my selection of the 10 best dysphagia cups for seniors.
Contents
Seniors sometimes find it very difficult to eat and swallow foods and liquids. As a caregiver, I feel that it is my responsibility to help people who cannot eat on their own to make sure they can eat and drink something. There are nearly 15mn Americans who suffer from this problem.
I have been working as a caregiver for the past 15 years and I have used all types of glasses, spoons, cups, and feeders to feed my patients. Recently I was helping an aged patient who was almost 80 years old and was suffering from dysphagia. His condition was deteriorating day by day due to a lack of nutrients hence my quest for the best dysphagia cups began.
These cups are sometimes also known as adaptive cups, and they help seniors with weak bodies to drink fluids. Before you know about these cups, you need some knowledge about dysphagia as a condition. This condition does not permit the patient to easily swallow even the thinnest fluids.
Now let’s take a look at the ten best cups for dysphagia!
How To Choose the best Dysphagia Cup
Material
Ideally, the best dysphagia cups should be made from the best material. These cups should also be ideal for all types of edibles, including hot and cold beverages. I like to use high-grade plastic cups for my patients as they are mainly BPA-free and safe for them.
Design
The design of the dysphagia cups should be ergonomic and convenient. The feeding cups I have selected in the above list either have two lids or two spouts. The user can drink any liquid from these multiple spouts. Users can drink liquids of different thicknesses and viscosity in these cups.
You might like to read: Signs of Dysphagia in the Elderly
Quality
The quality of these feeding cups is pretty excellent, in my opinion. You’ll find these feeding cups with extra features such as a nose piercing in the cups. This nose piercing allows users to drink from this cup without needing to tilt their heads.
Safety
All the feeding cups given in the above list have passed all safety clearances. Moreover, you’ll also find these cups to not have harmful chemicals and substances like BPA and latex.
Answers to Questions About Dysphagia Cups
How do dysphagia cups work?
These cups have a unique design that prevents liquids from escaping the lips. These cups maintain a direct flow of liquids towards the center of your mouth.
Can you use a Provale Cup with thickened liquids?
Yes, you can use a Provale cup with thick and even thin liquids. These cups have lids with adjustable flow control. This allows you to adjust the flow depending on the type of liquid.
Can adults use sippy cups?
Yes, adults can also use sippy cups. People generally associate these cups with infants and kids. There are sippy cups available in the market that cater to the elderly. These cups are mainly for the elderly that suffer from some condition or have weak body functioning.
Can you drink milk with dysphagia?
Yes, you can drink milk with dysphagia. Although you might struggle to drink milk as it has a thicker consistency. Dysphagia patients are not able to swallow liquids with a thicker consistency.
The 10 Best Dysphagia Cups For Seniors
#1 SP Ableware Feeding Cup
Features
- Material: 9.7/10
- Design: 9.6/10
- Quality: 9.5/10
- Safety: 9.5/10
- Overall score: 9.8/10
Technical Specifications
- Material: Polypropylene
- Capacity: Not given
- Dimensions: 3 x 6 x 3 inches
- Color: Transparent
Bottom Line
This feeding cup is the perfect fit for seniors as this cup is ideal for feeding them. This cup allows dribble-free drinking. You will not need them to sit up or raise their head for drinking.
Pros
- This water cup is ideal for feeding.
- It is dribble-proof.
- This feeding cup has an ergonomic design.
- This feeding cup is safe for the elderly.
Cons
- Dropping the cup might end up damaging it.
Details
- Material: These feeding cups are made from polypropylene. It is an excellent material suitable for making adaptive cups and bottles. You can use this feeding cup regularly.
- Design: All you need to do while using this feeding cup is to place your hands over the vent hole in the cap. I was able to control liquid flow through the mouthpiece with this feature.
- Quality: I was able to feed my relatives and patients their medicines properly with this feeding cup. This feeding cup can also easily be kept in a wheelchair or so on.
- Safety: I found that this feeding cup does not contain any latex. Due to this feature, this cup is very safe for consuming fluids.
#2 Kirimon Flow Control Spill Proof Cup
Features
- Material: 10/10
- Design: 10/10
- Quality: 9.8/10
- Safety: 9.9/10
- Overall score: 9.6/10
Technical Specifications
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Capacity: 200ml
- Dimensions:2.8 x 2.8 x 3.7 inches
- Color: Clear
Bottom Line
I would recommend you to buy this spill-proof cup for the elderly as this cup is ideal for dysphagia. It gives a proper grip to the elders to hold on to it properly so that they can take every sip of the food without spilling.
Pros
- This water cup is spill-proof.
- It has multiple waterspouts for feeding the elderly.
- This water cup is made from high-quality polycarbonate.
- You’ll be able to easily clean this water cup.
Cons
- Some people might not like the design.
Details
- Material: This water cup has well-defined markings on the cup. This water cup is made from high-quality polycarbonate for better durability. I administered the exact dosage of drugs and liquids with this water cup.
- Design: While I was taking care of elderly patients who suffered from dysphagia, this water cup’s design helped me look after them. There are two spouts on this water cup. This will also prevent the patient from swallowing air.
- Quality: I found this water cup to be spill-proof. While I used this water cup to feed the elderly, I provided them properly with this cup.
- Safety: This water cup is very safe and easy to clean. All the elements on this cup are BPA-free. You will not find any traces of latex in this water cup.
#3 PROVALE – Regulating Drinking Cup
Features
- Material: 9.2/10
- Design: 9.1/10
- Quality: 9.3/10
- Safety: 9.3/10
- Overall score: 9.2/10
Technical Specifications
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Capacity: 8 ounces
- Dimensions: 0.2 x 0.17 x 0.16 inches;
- Color: Transparent
Bottom Line
I found this water feeding cup ideal for the elderly as this cup has a limited flow of delivery. This feature specially caters to individuals that swallow issues related to dysphagia.
Pros
- This water cup has a limited flow.
- It is also easy to clean and dishwasher safe.
- This feeding cup has a broader base.
- You can give precise doses with this feeding cup.
Cons
- This feeding cup will not work with thick beverages.
Details
- Material: The material of this feeding cup is long-lasting. Each drinking motion with this feeding cup delivers 5cc or one teaspoon of any thin liquid. I was able to provide precise doses with the help of this feeding cup.
- Design: This feeding cup has a broader base. Its unique design will only permit a fixed amount of liquids to pass through. I found this feeding cup to have minimal tipping and spilling.
- Quality: I found cleaning and maintaining this feeding cup straightforward. You will not need any external tubes or valves to clean this feeding cup. You will support the quality of this feeding cup as it can also be washed in a dishwasher.
- Safety: In my experience, this feeding cup is safe and tested by the concerned authorities. There are no toxins in this feeding cup.
#4 Providence Spill-proof Cup
Features
- Material: 8.9/10
- Design: 9.0/10
- Quality: 8.8/10
- Safety: 8.7/10
- Overall score: 8.8/10
Technical Specifications
- Material: Latex
- Capacity: 8 ounces
- Dimensions: 4.17 x 4.09 x 3.39 inches
- Color: Transparent
Bottom Line
I found this feeding cup ideal for seniors as this cup is designed for seniors and children. People that have smaller hands can easily hold this cup.
Pros
- This feeding cup also comes with a smaller sippy cup.
- The spout on this cup will directly flow the liquids into your mouth.
- It is suitable for people that have smaller hands.
- It is microwave and dishwasher safe.
Cons
- Some people may not find this cup to be adaptive.
Details
- Material: This feeding cup is made from the best quality latex. This latex will keep your feeding cup durable and reliable.
- Design: In my opinion, this feeding cup has a unique design with an anti-splash lid. This lid helps control the flow of liquids and prevents any spillage.
- Quality: I would recommend this feeding cup to other users based on their quality assurance. The spout lid on this feeding cup will direct the fluids into your mouth.
- Safety: All the materials used in this feeding cup are safe. I could feed the elderly with this cup from a straw as a user. This straw can also be used with both lids.
You might like to read: 7 Common Digestive Problems In Elderly
#5 Homecraft Clear Polycarb Mug
Features
- Material: 8.7/10
- Design: 8.6/10
- Quality: 8.5/10
- Safety: 8.6/10
- Overall score: 8.6/10
Technical Specifications
- Material: Polycarbonate
- Capacity: 13.5 ounces
- Dimensions:11 x 8 x 2.7 inches
- Color: Transparent
Bottom Line
I found this feeding cup to be convenient. It offers the users the option to choose from two varieties of lids. These lids will provide a different experience while consuming liquids or beverages.
Pros
- This feeding cup is transparent so that you can measure the liquids.
- I found this feeding cup to be shatterproof.
- It has a spill-proof lid to avoid splashes.
- This feeding mug is dishwasher and microwave safe.
Cons
- The lid of this feeding cup can be too tight for some individuals.
Details
- Material: This feeding mug is made from top-notch polycarbonate. This material makes this feeding cup tough and durable. I found this feeding cup to be shatterproof; there was no accidental damage to this feeding cup.
- Design: The design of this feeding cup makes it easy for caregivers or caretakers to feed their patients. This lid is a nice feature for people with a weak grasp or kids.
- Quality: I had no issues with the quality of this feeding cup. It can effectively hold 13.5 ounces of any liquid. The user also gets two choices from which they can consume their drinks or beverages.
- Safety: I found cleaning and storing this feeding mug once it is not in use to be simple. I could easily clean this mug in a dishwasher. If you want to feed the elderly a hot beverage, you can also put this feeding mug in a microwave.
#6 Independence 12oz 2-Handle Plastic Mug
Features
- Material: 8.4/10
- Design: 8.3/10
- Quality: 8.5/10
- Safety: 8.1/10
- Overall score: 8.3/10
Technical Specifications
- Material: Plastic
- Capacity: 12 ounces
- Dimensions: 5 x 3 x 3 inches
- Color: Transparent
Bottom Line
In my opinion, this feeding cup ranks among the best cups out there for the elderly because it has a precise crystal construction. You’ll be able to have a good view of what you are drinking.
Pros
- This feeding cup is crystal clear.
- It is suitable for both hot and cold beverages.
- This is made from safe and harsh substances.
- It has an anti-splash design.
Cons
- It may not be ideal for the elderly with limited skills.
Details
- Material: This feeding cup does not have any latex. It is made from all certified materials such as BPA. All the materials used in this feeding cup are edible-friendly substances. These materials do not react with hot or cold items.
- Design: In my opinion, this feeding mug is very adaptive for both elderly and kids. It also has a clear and transparent construction for better visuals.
- Quality: In my opinion, the quality of this feeding cup is excellent. Due to this, you can drink all types of liquids and beverages in this cup, whether it is hot or cold.
- Safety: I was able to give precise doses of medicines and fluids to my patients with the help of this feeding cup. Your beverages will not react with this cup and create any harmful substance.
#7 Alimed Weighted Base Dysphagia Cup
Features
- Material: 7.9/10
- Design: 8.0/10
- Quality: 7.8/10
- Safety: 7.9/10
- Overall score: 7.8/10
Technical Specifications
- Material: Plastic
- Capacity: 8 ounces
- Dimensions:4.6 x 4.2 x 4 inches
- Color: Almond
Bottom Line
I find this weighted feeding cup good for physical conditions such as dysphagia. People suffering from this swallowing condition have a hard time swallowing anything, even fluids.
Pros
- This feeding cup is ideal for people with dysphagia.
- The capacity of this feeding cup is 8 ounces.
- You can also clean this feeding cup in a dishwasher.
- This feeding cup encourages the user to drink their stuff on their own.
Cons
- You may experience some chipping on this feeding cup while washing it.
Details
- Material: This feeding cup is made from edible grade plastic. This makes this cup compatible with all types of fluids and beverages.
- Design: You will find this feeding cup’s oval shape. This oval shape makes sure that the user has a direct flow of fluids in their mouth.
- Quality: One of the most significant features of this feeding cup is that it is made from excellent materials. This feeding cup encourages the elderly to drink their beverages independently and not be dependent on someone else.
- Safety: Elderly can drink with this feeding cup without tilting their head. To make this possible, this feeding cup has a unique nose clearance. This feature makes this feeding cup safe for the elderly.
#8 Kinsman Enterprises Wedge Cup with Lid
Features
- Material: 7.7/10
- Design: 7.6/10
- Quality: 7.5/10
- Safety: 7.5/10
- Overall score: 7.4/10
Technical Specifications
- Material: Plastic
- Capacity: Not given
- Dimensions: 6.61 x 6.42 x 6.3 inches
- Color: Transparent
Bottom Line
This feeding cup is among the best cups for dysphagia. This feeding cup is perfect for people with a neurological disease, impaired tongue, and so on. This feeding cup has a unique design that will help people with all such conditions to drink.
Pros
- This feeding cup has a unique design.
- You’ll be able to control the liquid flow in this cup.
- It is made from high-quality plastic.
- You get quality assurance with this feeding cup.
Cons
- You will need to be very cautious with this feeding cup.
Details
- Material: You’ll find this feeding cup to be very tough and durable. There will be no accidental damage to this feeding cup as it is made from high-quality plastic.
- Design: I found the creation of this feeding cup to be very ergonomic. This feeding cup allows you to control the flow of liquids from the cup. You can change the flow from regular to reduced.
- Quality: The lid on this wedge cup is high quality. It has two openings or spouts. You can use these spouts according to the situation you are in. If you are feeding someone, you can make them drink something at their own pace.
- Safety: This feeding cup is made from safe materials. It is also certified by the safety authorities to drink all fluids in this cup.
#9 RiJe Dysphagia Cup Controlled Sips
Features
- Material: 7.0/10
- Design: 7.1/10
- Quality: 7.2/10
- Safety: 6.8/10
- Overall score: 7.0/10
Technical Specifications
- Material: Polypropylene
- Capacity: Not given
- Dimensions: 4.25 x 4.25 x 7 inches
- Color: Red
Bottom Line
This feeding cup is unique as it allows the elderly to have a safer drinking experience. I encouraged my patients to swallow small portions of the liquids with this cup.
Pros
- This feeding cup does not leak or spill fluids.
- You can wash this feeding cup in a dishwasher.
- As a caregiver, this feeding cup will help you feed the elderly.
- It gives you multiple options to drink through this feeding cup.
Cons
- Some people might not like the design of this feeding cup.
Details
- Material: This feeding cup is made from polypropylene. The BPA-free cup is ideal for both hot and cold fluids. The material of this cup allows you to adjust the volume from 3cc to 15cc.
- Design: The user can have control swallowing with this feeding cup. They can drink through this cup either directly or with a straw. The rims on this feeding cup also have a nose cut so that the user doesn’t have to tilt their heads.
- Quality: The quality of this feeding cup is as high as it is made from BPA-free materials.
- Safety: This feeding cup is extremely safe for the elderly as it does not spill or leak any liquids. You can also wash this cup in a dishwasher.
#10 Sammons Preston Kennedy Cup
Features
- Material: 6.7/10
- Design: 6.8/10
- Quality: 6.5/10
- Safety: 6.6/10
- Overall score: 6.7/10
Technical Specifications
- Material: Plastic
- Capacity: 7 oz
- Dimensions:5.67 x 5.43 x 3.7 inches
- Color: Transparent
Bottom Line
I found this feeding cup ideal for the elderly as they are specially tilted to help them drink fluids effectively.
Pros
- This feeding cup is tilted for perfect drinking.
- Provides a great drinking angle to the users.
- There will be no spilling and splashing in this cup.
- This feeding cup has an assisted drinking feature.
Cons
- Some people might not like the overall quality of the product.
Details
- Material: This feeding cup is highly durable as it is made from top-quality plastic. The lids on this cup are spill-proof. They are secured tightly so that there is no splashing and spillage.
- Design: You will find the design of this feeding cup to be tilted. Due to this tilted design elderly won’t have to tilt their heads while drinking from these cups. You will always be at a great angle to drink from these cups whether you are sitting, standing, reclining, or so on.
- Quality: User also gets a unique assisted drinking feature in this cup. This feature makes these cups suitable for independent and mess-free drinking. The elderly won’t necessarily have to depend on a caregiver like me to help them out.
- Safety: This feeding cup is latex-free. You’ll also find these sippy cups to be dishwasher safe. These cups are safe up to 108°F. You’ll be able to fill 7oz of fluids in this feeding cup.
You might like to read: Ten Ways Processed Food Can Lead To Early Death
My Top 3 Choices
Dysphagia is a serious condition that has a massive impact on the person suffering from this condition. They have a hard time swallowing liquids. As caregivers, it is our responsibility to find solutions to such problems. This article has talked about the best dysphagia cups for the elderly.
Let me highlight three options as a final summary of my review:
The best option is the SP Ableware Feeding Cup. This is because this feeding cup is the perfect fit for seniors as this cup is ideal for feeding them. This cup allows dribble-free drinking. You will not need them to sit up or raise their head for drinking.
The Kirimon Flow Control Spill Proof Cup is another great choice. It offers a proper grip to the elders to hold on to it properly so that they can take every sip of the food without spilling.
If you are looking for a value for money option, you can also consider the Sammons Preston Kennedy Cup, which offers good material, great design, and better drinking experience and all this at a very reasonable price point.
