Swallowing Exercises & Therapies: Improve Function & Comfort
Some seniors struggle to swallow in the usual way most of us take for granted. However, several swallowing exercises and therapies—including those we've compiled below—can help seniors strengthen their throat muscles. Use these exercises to improve your swallowing function and comfort for improved quality of life.
What is Dysphagia?
The Mayo Clinic defines “dysphagia” as “difficulty swallowing.” This esophageal condition can happen at any age, but it’s more common in seniors. Dysphagia has a multitude of potential causes, each with its own corresponding treatments that a physician, therapist, or pathologist might assign to you.
6 Swallowing Exercises and Therapies
Regardless of if you have dysphagia, these exercises from the National Foundation of Swallowing Disorders (NFSD) can help you strengthen your swallowing muscles. Which can you incorporate into your daily routine?
1. Hyoid Lift Maneuver
To perform the hyoid lift maneuver, hold a straw in your mouth and place it over small scraps of paper. Suck on the straw to pick up the paper and deposit it into a cup that’s about a foot or so away. Repeat this three to five times when you first start out and work your way up to moving 10 pieces or more in a session.
2. Shaker Exercise
The shaker exercise requires a bit more mobility but can easily be done when you first wake up. Lie flat on your back and lift your head up above whatever surface you’re lying on. Hold your head elevated for a few counts and then release it, repeating the process four to five times in one session, at least four times a day.
3. Supraglottic Swallow
If the name of this exercise isn’t enough of a tongue twister, the exercise itself can prove challenging for some people. As you place a small piece of food in your mouth, hold your breath and swallow, then cough gently to clear your throat and exhale. Try this exercise first without a piece of food if you prefer, and then include it once you feel comfortable.
4. Mendelsohn Maneuver
Swallowing requires your Adam’s apple to rise and lower, but this exercise helps you keep it elevated to promote safe swallowing. As you swallow, try to keep your Adam’s apple elevated as long as you can, using two fingers to assist if necessary. Repeat this exercise several times a day until you no longer need to use your fingers for assistance.
5. Effortful Swallow
The effortful swallow exercise requires using all the necessary muscles to swallow. Contract them all as hard as you can, and repeat them 10 times. Practice this exercise three times a day to strengthen your swallowing muscles.
6. Masako Exercise
To perform this exercise, stick out your tongue and hold it between your lips and teeth. Attempt to swallow. Repeat this exercise five times a day.
Visiting Angels of Toms River: Caring for Seniors With Dysphagia
Specialized senior care services represent one of many areas in which Visiting Angels of Toms River caregivers serve their local senior communities. Our caregivers have previously worked with clients who have dysphagia and rely on that expertise with each client moving forward. If you’d like to learn more about our senior home care services, including our specialty care services, contact us to schedule a free consultation at 732-240-1050.