Dysphagia: A Common Challenge for Many Older Adults

Dysphagia affects many individuals for a variety of reasons.

Dysphagia, swallowing challenges are sadly very common as people age. It is therefore important to be aware of the signs, symptoms, as well as proper interventions as individuals can have significant health challenges and negative outcomes if appropriate interventions are not put in place timely. Dysphagia without proper care support can result in significant malnutrition, dehydration, weight loss, chronic respiratory challenges, aspiration pneumonia, a well as a shortened life expectancy, reduced quality of life, and increased caregiver stress and challenges.

Approximately 7 to 10 percent of adults 50 and older have dysphagia, although this number may be skewed and higher as many patients with these challenges may not seek medical care or dismiss symptoms. In additon, up to 25 percent of hospitalized patients and 30 to 40 percent of patients in nursing homes experience swallowing problems (AAFP.ORG). It is therefore important for caregivers and patients to learn more about dysphagia to support holistic health and maximize wellness.

Common Signs of Dysphagia:

• Drooling or poor management of saliva, food, clear fluids.

• Coughing after straw use.

• Discomfort when swallowing or expressing it is hard to swallow.

• Coughing or throat clearing during or after eating and drinking

• Ineffective chewing, difficulty with mixed textures or in chewing foods

• Difficulty closing lips, leading to food and drinks leaking from mouth

• Complaints of food sticking in throat or feeling a “fullness” in throat

• Weight loss

• Changes in voice or vocal quality when eating or drinking

• Recurrent infections effecting the respiratory system such as aspiration pneumonia

• Recent illness, hospitalization and weakness can cause temporary dysphagia challenges

• Individuals on hospice need to be monitored for this with progression.

Timely and proper evaluation and interventions are important if expereincing the above symptoms. If you or a loved one is having swallowing challenges please reach out to our clinical care manager team as we can assist to ensure proper evaluation, guidance, and support is provided to move forward safely and effectively!