Older adults have a higher risk of choking. Some have documented medical conditions that put them at even higher risk. Because of this, nursing homes must take reasonable measures to help decrease the chance of it occurring, and be ready to respond quickly when it does. Read on to learn important information on how you can help ensure that your loved one is protected from choking accidents in their nursing home. Higher Risk of Choking Among the Elderly As we age, we are at a higher risk of choking due to the mouth and throat muscles beginning to weaken and lose their strength over time, making it more difficult to swallow food. Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) affects all ages, but it's more common in the elderly. Additionally, older people are more vulnerable to choking because the following situations are more likely to occur:
- After effects of having a stroke;
- Bad posture, which can lead to food becoming stuck in the airway;
- Dentures or missing teeth;
- Dry mouth from medications and/or aging;
- Gastroesophageal and gastrointestinal disorders; and/or
- Neurological disorders, including cerebral palsy and Parkinson's Disease.
- A look of panic on the face;
- Loss of consciousness;
- Coughing or gagging;
- Inability to speak;
- Turning blue around the face, lips, and fingernails; and/or
- Wheezing.
- Failing to conduct adequate background checks of staff;
- Understaffing the facility;
- Failing to properly train staff;
- Not monitoring residents properly;
- Failing to follow the Care Plan;
- Not performing the one-on-one duties required of a caregiver;
- Not properly cutting up food;
- Rushing residents to finish their meals;
- Providing foods that are difficult to swallow; and/or
- Leaving high-risk patients unattended.
- Keep in touch with your loved one as much as you can, checking in on their feelings. Take note of any changes in behavior or physical changes;
- Follow up with their medical needs, including any new and continuing medications;
- Notify staff of special dietary restrictions (for allergies or choking hazards); and
- Meet frequently with the Director of Nursing and Administrator to ensure the Care Plan is appropriate and being followed.