Choking is a huge problem for aging adults and the risks increase if they’re dealing with other health issues. Changes in the ability to swallow, problems with oral health, and respiratory illnesses all can contribute to choking issues for seniors. Staying as proactive as possible helps to reduce risks related to choking, which might mean getting help from senior home care services.
Why Are Seniors at Greater Risk of Choking?
There are so many possible causes of choking for seniors. Dysphagia, or trouble swallowing, might be caused by weakened muscles in the throat, conditions like Parkinson’s disease, or even a stroke. Missing teeth, poorly fitting dentures, or gum disease might make it more difficult for seniors to chew, which might cause them to try to swallow pieces of food that are too large. Medication side effects are another possible problem because of the ways that dry mouth and other side effects change the ability to safely swallow food.
Adjust the Texture of Foods
Understanding the possible causes of choking is one thing, but the real issue is how to move forward safely. Some seniors need softer foods that contain more moisture. These types of foods can be easier for them to swallow and reduce the risk of choking. Some options might be scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, and vegetables that are cooked until they’re mushy. Avoiding dry, sticky foods is really important because they’re tougher to eat safely.
Encourage Smaller Bites and Slower Eating
It’s also good to encourage seniors to eat more slowly and to take smaller bites. Home care providers can help prepare meals that are easier for aging adults to eat safely. They can offer gentle reminders while seniors are eating, too, helping seniors to slow down their eating pace so that they don’t get overwhelmed while eating.
Positioning Makes a Difference
Some seniors lean back or sit in a recliner while eating. There are lots of reasons they may be more comfortable that way, but it also makes choking more of a possibility. Sitting more upright while eating and for a short time afterward makes it easier for food to move safely down the esophagus and into the stomach. Elder care providers can help seniors to remain properly positioned while eating so that they’re more comfortable and safer.
Proper Hydration Can Help
Too many seniors don’t get enough water throughout the day. Staying hydrated helps to prevent dry mouth and it can also make swallowing a little easier. Drinking small sips of water while eating can also help to move food safely down the esophagus. Senior home care providers are great at keeping track of hydration levels, ensuring seniors get everything they need throughout the day.
Mealtime Supervision Is an Important Safety Step
Eating alone can be scary for seniors, especially if they already have more than a few risk factors that could make them choke easily. Making meals more social and having senior home care providers around during meals ensures that seniors have supervision while they eat. If something should happen, there’s someone there who can react quickly.
Choking is more preventable than seniors might realize. With the help of senior home care providers, family members can rest easier knowing that aging adults are in good hands.
If you are considering senior home care in Memorial, TX for an aging loved one, please call the caring staff at At Your Side Home Care. We will answer all of your senior care questions. Call today: (832) 271-1600.
At Your Side Home Care, provides exceptional home care assistance for seniors and families in Houston, West Houston, Katy, Memorial, The Heights, Spring Valley, Garden Oaks, Hunters Creek, River Oaks, Hilshire Village, Galleria, Cinco Ranch, Spring Branch, Sugar Land, Missouri City, Richmond, Rosenburg, Piney Point, Bay City and surrounding areas.
Our Certified Nurse Aides, 24-Hour Live-in Assistants and Home Health Aides are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. We also provide the security and confidence of 24-hour Telephone Assistance, so fast, reliable help is always available when it's needed. To learn more about our homecare services see our homecare services page.
Different people need different levels of homecare. To meet the requirements of our clients, At Your Side Homecare maintains consistent staffing levels of caring professionals. Homecare service is available for as little as a few hours a week, or as many as 24 hours a day, seven days a week
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