How to Prevent Choking in Elderly Adults

Choking in elderly is more common due to various factors. As people age, organs — such as the mouth and teeth — start to deteriorate. Older adults encounter problems such as brittle or broken teeth and gum disease. Additionally, mouths tend to dry out with age and that leads to problems with chewing and swallowing food. Furthermore, health issues related to muscle control (e.g. Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, and paralysis) can place older adults at an increased risk for choking.

This article describes emergency treatment strategies if an elderly person chokes on food, as well as foods that should be avoided, as well as foods suitable for the elderly to choose to prevent choking.

Please use the questions below to help you understand: 1.Name three foods that elderly people most often choke on? 2.Three ways to prevent seniors from choking on food?