Systems theory and feeding programs:.
Eating, as one of the basic processes of life, is a skill vulnerable to disruption from a wide variety of insults. The typical mental retardation institution with residents of many age and ability levels provides a spectrum of eatinglfecding disorders. Thc institution also includes many service systems which interact to provide mealtime serviccs. These include training programs, direct care, dietary, and medical-nursing services. This paper describes the development of a complex, comprehensive feeding program in a 120-bed mental retardation institution. Components of the program include staff training, diagnostic and diet clinics, evaluation and resident training, and dining room management. The application of Gencral Systems Theory to the fceding program is described and implications for the development of similar programs are discussed.
Co-Founder, ADAPT/ABILITYInc., and Private Practice, Asheville, NC; and Lead Occupational Therapist, Black Mountain Center.
B J
BJ
Gaines