Managing Dry Mouth in the Elderly: Causes, Effects on Swallowing, and Tips for Relief

Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a common condition among the elderly population, often resulting from medication side effects, dehydration, or underlying health conditions. Saliva plays a crucial role in digestion, oral health, and swallowing. When its production decreases, it can lead to discomfort, difficulty swallowing, and an increased risk of oral infections. Understanding the causes and effects of dry mouth is key to managing it effectively and improving quality of life.

How Dry Mouth Affects Swallowing

Saliva is essential for the swallowing process as it helps moisten food, making it easier to chew and move down the oesophagus. When saliva production is reduced, the following swallowing difficulties may arise:

• Difficulty Forming a Bolus: Without enough moisture, food particles may not clump together properly, making it harder to swallow.

• Increased Risk of Choking: A dry throat can cause food to get stuck in the oesophagus, increasing the risk of choking or aspiration.

• Discomfort and Pain: Swallowing dry foods without adequate lubrication may lead to discomfort, irritation, or even a burning sensation in the mouth.

• Altered Taste and Appetite Loss: Reduced saliva can affect taste perception, leading to a decreased appetite and inadequate nutrition.

Common Causes of Dry Mouth in the Elderly

1. Medications – Over 500 medications, including antihistamines, antidepressants, antihypertensives, and sedatives, list dry mouth as a side effect.

2. Medical Conditions – Diseases such as Parkinson’s, diabetes, stroke, and Sjögren’s syndrome can impair salivary gland function.

3. Dehydration – Insufficient fluid intake or conditions causing excessive fluid loss can reduce saliva production.

4. Radiation Therapy – Cancer treatments affecting the head and neck can damage salivary glands, leading to chronic dry mouth.

5. Mouth Breathing – Habitual mouth breathing, often due to nasal congestion or sleep apnoea, can dry out oral tissues.

Tips for Managing and Finding Relief from Dry Mouth

Hydration and Dietary Adjustments

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep the mouth hydrated.

• Consume moisture-rich foods such as soups, broths, and pureed meals.

• Avoid dehydrating beverages like alcohol, caffeine, and carbonated drinks.

• Suck on ice chips or sugar-free lozenges to stimulate saliva flow.

• Consider meltable crackers, such as those from Savorease, which dissolve easily in the mouth, reducing choking risks associated with dry foods.

Oral Care Practices

• Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.

• Use alcohol-free mouthwashes designed for dry mouth relief.

• Regularly visit a dentist to monitor oral health and prevent infections.

• Use artificial saliva substitutes such as over-the-counter gels, sprays, or lozenges to mimic natural saliva.

Lifestyle Modifications

• Use a humidifier at night to add moisture to the air, preventing oral dryness.

• Chew sugar-free gum or xylitol-based products to promote saliva production.

• Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as these can exacerbate dryness.

Specialised Nutritional Solutions

For seniors experiencing dry mouth and swallowing difficulties, texture-modified foods can provide a safe and comfortable eating experience. GentleFoods® offers a range of soft, pureed, and minced-moist meals designed to make swallowing easier while maintaining nutritional value. These meals help seniors enjoy a varied and balanced diet without the discomfort caused by dry mouth.

Conclusion

Dry mouth can significantly impact an elderly person's ability to swallow and maintain proper nutrition. By staying hydrated, maintaining good oral care, and making dietary adjustments, seniors can find relief and improve their quality of life. For those with more severe swallowing difficulties, incorporating texture-modified foods can provide a practical and effective solution. If dry mouth persists, seeking advice from a healthcare professional is recommended to address any underlying causes and ensure the best course of treatment.