Swallowing Difficulties in Seniors: Causes and Solutions

Q: Swallowing Difficulties in Seniors: Causes and Solutions

Hello： Difficulty swallowing, commonly associated with neurodegeneration, is often observed. <br>It is recommended to seek evaluation from a neurologist or a rehabilitation specialist. <br>Wishing you safety and health. <br>Sincerely, Dr. <br>Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Departm

Swallowing difficulties

I would like to consult a physician: My mother is 71 years old, and recently she has been having difficulty swallowing harder meats or fibrous vegetables.
She is afraid to swallow and worries about choking, so she has to take small bites to get them down.
However, she has no issues with other foods, such as bread or softer meats and dry rice.
What could be causing this problem? Thank you, doctor!

johny, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/03/29

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello: Difficulty swallowing, commonly associated with neurodegeneration, is often observed.
It is recommended to seek evaluation from a neurologist or a rehabilitation specialist.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2021/03/29

More Info

Swallowing difficulties, or dysphagia, in seniors can arise from a variety of causes, and it is important to understand these factors to address the issue effectively. In your mother's case, her difficulty swallowing harder meats and fibrous vegetables while being able to consume softer foods suggests a potential problem with the swallowing mechanism, which can be influenced by several physiological changes that occur with aging.

As people age, the muscles involved in swallowing can weaken, leading to a decreased ability to manage certain textures of food. This can be due to age-related changes in muscle tone and coordination, which may result in a slower and less effective swallowing process. Additionally, conditions such as dry mouth (xerostomia), which is common among older adults, can further complicate swallowing, making it difficult to form a bolus (the mass of food ready to be swallowed) and move it down the esophagus.

Another potential cause could be esophageal issues, such as esophageal stricture (narrowing of the esophagus), which can make it difficult for larger or tougher pieces of food to pass through. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is also common in older adults and can lead to inflammation and discomfort during swallowing. Neurological conditions, such as stroke or Parkinson's disease, can also affect the swallowing reflex and coordination, though these may be less likely if your mother has not exhibited other symptoms.

To address these swallowing difficulties, several strategies can be employed:
1. Dietary Modifications: It may be beneficial for your mother to modify her diet to include softer foods that are easier to swallow. Foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, and cooked vegetables can be good alternatives. Additionally, cutting food into smaller pieces can help.

2. Thickening Agents: If she struggles with liquids, using thickening agents can help make swallowing easier and reduce the risk of aspiration (food entering the airway).

3. Swallowing Techniques: Encouraging her to take smaller bites and chew thoroughly can help. Some people find that tilting their head slightly forward while swallowing can aid in the process.

4. Hydration: Ensuring she stays well-hydrated can help with saliva production, which is essential for swallowing.

5. Consultation with a Specialist: It is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a speech-language pathologist who specializes in swallowing disorders. They can conduct a thorough evaluation and provide tailored strategies and exercises to improve swallowing function.

6. Medical Evaluation: If the swallowing difficulties persist or worsen, it may be necessary to conduct further medical evaluations, such as a barium swallow study or an endoscopy, to rule out any structural abnormalities or underlying conditions.

In conclusion, while swallowing difficulties in seniors can be common, they should not be overlooked. Addressing these issues early can help prevent complications such as malnutrition, dehydration, and aspiration pneumonia. It is advisable to seek professional guidance to ensure your mother receives the appropriate care and support for her swallowing difficulties.

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