Many people hear of aspiration pneumonia when it’s already too late: their loved one has the diagnosis. This doesn’t have to be you. Aspiration pneumonia is preventable. It occurs when foreign matter, such as food or saliva, is breathed (aspirated) into the lungs, introducing bacteria.
People who have swallowing problems due to stroke, advanced dementia, Parkinson’s or other neurological disorder, are highly prone to aspiration pneumonia. And there’s no vaccine for this pneumonia.
With dysphagia, the flap that covers the airway does not reliably close. This allows inhalation of particles of food, drink, saliva, or gastric acid. Supporting good swallowing is key to helping your loved one stay clear of this diagnosis.
Tips for mealtime
- Provide rest for thirty minutes beforehand. Weakness, fatigue, and sedation promote trouble with swallowing.
- Position sitting up to eat. Make sure your loved one is sitting up as close to 90 degrees as possible. Preferably at a table.
- Ensure calm, leisurely meals. Rushed eating is more likely to result in food going down the wrong pipe.
- Reduce distractions. Present one food at a time. Smile encouragingly but minimize conversation. Talking is distracting. It increases the risk of aspiration.
- Encourage small bites and sips of water. Food goes down more easily when cut into small pieces, especially if alternated with sips of water.
- Try a tucked chin position for swallowing. Lowering the chin toward the chest may help line up the throat in a favorable angle. Ask a speech therapist for instruction.
Regular oral care is essential. Brushing teeth twice a day removes food particles and bacteria. Using a nonalcohol mouthwash can help. Also, routine cleaning by a hygienist.
Thickened liquids can reduce swallowing problems for some people. Others dislike the texture and reject fluids altogether. That can lead to dehydration, which can present other problems, such as bladder infections. Instead, try high-liquid foods such as Jello, watermelon, and sorbet.
Do you care for an aging loved one?
You know how much it can take to keep them safe. As the Delaware, and Delaware and Chester Counties in PA experts in family caregiving, we at Delaware Palliative have a lot of experience with helping families and older adults navigate the changes of aging. We can help by offering tips, making assessments, and creating plans for future care. Give us a call at 302-478-5707 to learn more.
