The Use of Thickeners to Aid With Swallowing Problems

Senior citizens face health challenges younger individuals cannot comprehend. Every person needs to eat to survive and thrive, but some men and women struggle to swallow as they get older. Their inability to eat can lead to additional health issues. What should a person know about dysphagia or difficulty swallowing? 

Why Does Dysphagia Affect Older Individuals More Than Younger People? 

As people age, their muscle tone decreases, including muscle tone in their pharynx and esophagus. Other physical changes may also impact their ability to swallow. Dementia may lead to the person forgetting how to chew and swallow, or the food or liquid might enter the windpipe, causing them to choke or cough. Aspiration is a concern because it could lead to pneumonia. Individuals should consider learning more about SimplyThick to reduce the risk of this dangerous illness. This thickener is one way to reduce the risk of problems.

Men and women with Parkinson's disease may have trouble swallowing. This problem is often seen with those struggling with GERD, a head or spinal injury, or cancers that affect the upper body. A person might also find it difficult to swallow if they have had a stroke. Thickeners can help these individuals follow a healthy diet. 

Thickening Liquids Can Help

Individuals who find fluids go into their lungs when they attempt to swallow often benefit from thickened drinks. Liquids with a thicker consistency won't cause aspiration as frequently as thinner liquids do. They move slowly down the throat, so they are easier to control. Thin liquids move quickly down the throat, and a person with swallowing difficulties may not be able to act fast enough, so the fluid enters the lungs. 

Finding the Right Thickener

Men and women will find thickeners come in many flavors and textures. These thickeners work with beverages but aren't needed for foods. People use powdered potatoes, tapioca, or rice cereal when thickening foods they eat. When choosing the thickener, individuals can select from mildly thick, a drinkable thickener; moderately thick, which is the consistency of a milkshake; and extremely thick, which they must eat with a spoon. 

Working with Professionals to Treat the Disorder

People with a swallowing disorder often see a speech pathologist. This professional examines the person to determine their swallowing ability. If they determine thickeners are needed, they recommend the thickness. Doctors don't handle this part of the treatment plan. 

Speech pathologists must help patients find products they will like and use. Patients don't typically like thick liquids but need them. Honey-thick liquids best prevent aspiration, but patients often don't prefer them. The speech pathologist should work with the patient to find a product they like and adjust the thickness to treat their condition. 

Research shows thickeners can help reduce the risk of aspiration pneumonia. However, these products only benefit those who will use them, so finding the right flavor and texture is crucial. Speech pathologists can be of help in finding this product. They then need to help the patient determine the thickness required to reduce the risk of aspiration while ensuring it is thin enough for the patient to enjoy. When this balance is found, the individual will find it easier to enjoy food and liquids again. Their risk of dehydration will also decrease, which is essential in seniors who often don't take in enough fluids.