Studies show that dysphagia is becoming more common in America. At this point, an estimated 20 percent of people suffer from it, and that figure surges to more than 60 percent among people who are over the age of 60. Living with this condition can be not only frustrating but also quite frightening. Dysphagia is also dangerous considering the risks of choking, aspiration pneumonia, and other complications that stem from it.

With that being the case, being a caregiver for someone who suffers from the condition can be daunting. Understanding how to keep a dysphagia patient safe is essential. The following tips can help you support safe swallowing to protect your loved one and make meals less stressful for both them and you. 

Thicken Liquids

For one, thickening liquids for easier swallowing can make matters easier and safer. Beverages, sauces, and other liquids can be more difficult to control than solid foods. As such, they’re more easily aspirated into the lungs. That, in turn, increases the risk of developing pneumonia. Specially designed thickening agents slow the flow of liquids from the mouth to the esophagus and make them easier for dysphagia patients to control. 

Additionally, you can use cornstarch slurries or roux made of flour and butter or oil to thicken sauces and broths. Offering your loved one naturally thicker drinks, like smoothies, can help as well.

For chunky soups, puree them before serving to simultaneously thicken the liquid and eliminate larger pieces of meats and vegetables. Smoothies and pureed soups have a more controllable consistency while also offering extra nutrients. At the same time, thicker liquids can help your loved one stay hydrated with less risk of pneumonia and other potential dangers. 

Be Patient

It’s also important to be patient with your loved one while they’re eating and drinking. Be sure they take their time with meals and drinks. Small bites and sips are more manageable than larger ones, and they pose fewer dangers of choking and aspiration. Your loved one should fully chew their foods before swallowing. Wait until they’re completely finished with a bite of food or sip of drink before offering another. 

Proper Eating Positions

Being sure your loved one is in the proper position for eating and drinking also reduces risks. They should eat and drink sitting upright rather than lying down or reclining. Their back should be straight, and tilting the head slightly forward is often recommended.

If necessary, use pillows to prop up your loved one when they’re eating and drinking. Consider keeping them in this position for at least half an hour afterward to further reduce the risks of aspiration. 

Eliminate Distractions

Finally, eliminating distractions during meals can help prevent choking and aspiration. Distractions may keep them from focusing on chewing and swallowing. They can cause increased anxiety and stress as well, which may make mealtime less enjoyable. Studies have shown that dysphagia patients who have fewer distractions at mealtime are likely to eat more and take in more of the fluids and nutrients they need. 

Improving Mealtime Experiences for Dysphagia Patients

Mealtime can be stressful for dysphagia patients as well as their caretakers. For the patients themselves, it can even be dangerous.

There are ways to reduce the risks and improve the eating and drinking experience for your loved one, though. Use the tips mentioned here to support safe swallowing for your loved one and keep them healthy.