Swallowing and Aging

Question 1

What are some of the physiological changes as we age?

Answer 1

Reduction in mass. (Atrophy)

Decreased range of motion, speed and strength.

Diminished sensory abilities.

Reduced blood supply.

Respiratory compromise. (Risk for aspiration)

Question 2

What could be an oral stage deficit?

Answer 2

Hypertrophy of the tongue – Decreased tongue pressure

Sensory abilities impaired – poor discrimination of viscosity

Prolonged mastication

Poor dentition

Question 3

What could be a pharyngeal stage deficit?

Answer 3

Mildly delayed swallow initiation.

Inadequate hyolaryngeal excursion.

Impairments in cricopharyngeal contraction and relaxation.

Increased instances of laryngeal penetration – no aspiration.

FEEST – Poor Laryngeal adductor reflex.

Sensory and motor impairments leading to residue.

Question 4

What could be some deficits in the esophageal stage?

Answer 4

Decreased motility of UES, LES and the esophageal body

Resting pressure of UES is impaired.

Peristalsis is poor – more pronounced in secondary peristalsis.

Question 5

What could happen to a bolus (negative)?

Answer 5

Penetration/Aspiration

Residue

Question 6

Aspiration is common in older adults. True or False?

Answer 6

False. It is very rare in older adults. It’s more likely as an older adult, but it still isn’t very common. Laryngeal penetration may be seen.