Many seniors have difficulty swallowing. They have a condition known as dysphasia, which can lead to dehydration, malnutrition, and other issues. Experts believe approximately 15% of seniors struggle with this condition. Furthermore, 68% of individuals living in nursing homes are believed to have dysphasia. How can a person caring for a loved one with dysphasia provide them with daily support?
What Causes Dysphagia?
Individuals supporting a loved one with dysphagia would like to know what causes this common condition. In most cases, it is a result of weakened muscles in the mouth and throat. However, aging, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, and cancer can also lead to this condition. It might also develop after a person experiences a medical trauma, such as a stroke. Lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, and help from SimplyThick will allow these individuals to eat once again without fear of choking and other issues.
Thickening Medications
Many seniors take oral medications. When doing so, they typically wash these medications down with water. Caregivers need to thicken the beverage to ensure their loved one can swallow safely. Another option is to crush pills and mix them in with a thick food, such as pudding. Unfortunately, pills often take on a bitter taste when crushed, so thickening the beverages is typically the best option.
No Straws
Drinking from a straw increases the flow rate of liquid in the mouth. A person may struggle to swallow properly when they drink from a straw. If they can swallow, the liquid often goes down the wrong pipe, and they may choke or aspirate. Avoiding straws is the best option for men and women with dysphagia.
Hydration
When a person cannot swallow properly, they often avoid beverages. They can drink safely once again when their beverages are thickened. It takes longer to drink a thick beverage, such as a milkshake, so it is less likely to cause difficulty swallowing. Caregivers must prioritize ensuring their loved ones remain hydrated. Thickening the beverages is one way to do so.
Avoid Certain Foods
People with dysphasia often find they must avoid certain foods. Jello and ice cream are two foods that people with this condition find difficult to swallow. Caregivers must be aware of which foods melt in the mouth and transform into a thin liquid, which can then be aspirated into the lungs.
Individuals with dysphagia struggle to move food to the back of the throat, where they are swallowed. This allows more time for food such as ice cream and Jello to melt and cause issues. Caregivers should try to find substitutions that are appealing to the individual so they don’t have to miss out on these special treats.
Healthy Meals
Many people with dysphasia struggle to take in enough calories every day. They may also be lacking in vitamins and minerals. Caregivers may purchase drinks such as Boost or Ensure as meal replacements to provide these individuals with the necessary protein and vitamins they need. However, they are not good substitutes because they contain artificial ingredients and sugar. High-fat foods, such as peanut butter and Greek yogurt, can be added to dishes to boost the calorie count and help individuals maintain their weight.
Planning Meals
Caregivers need to plan meals carefully for individuals with dysphasia. These meals should occur when the person can sit upright while eating and drinking to ensure food goes down successfully. Additionally, a meal should be planned for when a person is most alert. Eating can lead to fatigue for some people, so meals should be planned that can be eaten in 15 minutes or less. Individuals with dysphagia benefit from smaller meals offered more frequently.
Caregivers should consult their loved one’s medical team to learn about other ways to support them while eating. Healthy meals are a priority for individuals with dysphagia, as these meals improve their quality of life. Learn more today to see how you can make meals enjoyable for your loved one once again while ensuring they get the vitamins, minerals, and nutrients they need to thrive.
