Choking can often be a life-threatening situation, with some demographics being more vulnerable than others. Research shows that choking is the second most common cause of death in retirement communities, second only to falls. You may face greater choking risks due to factors like decreased salivary production or from certain medications that you have to take. Loose teeth and dentures might also be an issue. It is important to modify your diet and preparation to reduce choking hazards and keep yourself safe.
Here are some top tips to reduce choking risks.
A Modified Diet
There are some types of food that may pose more of a choking hazard than others. It would be easier to just avoid food like hard candy, chicken with bones, bread, pizza, and steak. Some better food choices with low choking risks would be food like soups, ground meat, applesauce, or chocolate. Try to opt for food that is easy to chew and digest, pureed food is recommended, but ensure that you are able to retain sufficient nutrients from the food you are eating as well. A balanced diet that is not a choking hazard would be more than ideal. It would also be beneficial to avoid ‘thin fluids’ like water. Shockingly, thin fluids can significantly contribute to being a choking hazard, and it is best to enquire about thickening agents to make your water more viscous to swallow.
Stay Focused When Eating
People often face choking risks because they get distracted from their food. It is important to stay focused on your food when eating, especially if you’re especially prone to choking. Try not to talk while eating, as your epiglottis would get confused and increase your risk of choking. While eating, try not to drink fluids and eat too fast. You could julienne your food if possible, and try to have more mushy food. Learn to eat more slowly, and chew your food well before swallowing.
Eat Healthily and Safely at Conservatory At North Austin
At Conservatory At North Austin, we have attentive team members that would look out for you and help to provide high-quality care. We also have a Sensations Dining program that can help to cater to any dietary restrictions and special requests that you might have. This can include preparing food that would be less of a choking hazard. Our professional culinary team comes up with a nutritious and diverse menu that features fresh and natural ingredients all days of the year. It will be bound to satisfy the taste buds of everyone. We also have a wide range of fun and engaging activities to keep our residents physically active and occupied. Joining a retirement community is one of the best ways to make sure that you are safe and well taken care of. So what are you waiting for? Contact us now to learn more about what we have to offer.
