Ways to Manage Dysphagia in Seniors

Dysphagia is a condition that affects the swallowing ability of a person. When not remedied, its consequences or adverse effects can include malnutrition, dehydration, aspiration pneumonia, and choking, among others. For seniors who are already suffering from other conditions like dementia, having dysphagia makes them at risk of further compromising their overall health. Speech therapy is a treatment approach that has many benefits for seniors. It is also effective in treating or easing dysphagia. To complement the therapy, here are ways that you can manage dysphagia at home:

• Keep the senior hydrated
  Because swallowing is hard for them, the seniors might not initiate drinking water. It is the job of the home care provider to make sure that they are hydrated. Thickened liquids are usually recommended for people with dysphagia.
• Ensure their proper nutrition
  Consult with your speech therapist or nutritionist about the proper diet for seniors with dysphagia. Your provider of home health care in San Antonio, Texas can carry out this special diet with meal preparation and assistance in eating.
• Help them be in good posture
  Sitting upright helps the food or drink go down to the stomach easily. To avoid choking, this is recommended for those with dysphagia. Assist them to sit upright whenever they eat or drink.
• Keep them healthy
  All these tips boil down to keeping seniors healthy while they are managing or getting treated for dysphagia. If the senior has other underlying conditions, our skilled nursing in Texas can have scheduled visits to check up on them.