11/30/2025
Thickened liquids are an important safety measure for individuals with dementia who may have dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing. As dementia progresses, the muscles involved in swallowing can weaken, and the coordination required to safely manage liquids can become impaired.
When a person cannot swallow effectively, thin liquids (like water or juice) move too quickly down the throat and can enter the airway instead of the esophagus. This is known as aspiration, which can lead to coughing, choking, and serious health complications such as aspiration pneumonia or even death.
Thickening liquids helps them move more slowly, making them easier to control in the mouth and throat and reducing the risk of aspiration. This simple modification is a vital part of maintaining nutrition, hydration, and overall quality of life while prioritizing safety for those living with dementia and swallowing difficulties.
Typically, with my experience, this happens with clients in later stages of dementia, and mostly when they are living in long term care homes. We work alongside dieticians and nursing staff ensuring for safe, and smooth transitions. Photos below are typical thickening agents used in LTC.
