Managing safer swallowing

Your eating and drinking position

• Sit upright in a chair whenever possible.
• Keep your head and body straight, avoid leaning forward, backwards or to the side.
• Try not to tip your head back when swallowing.

How you eat and drink

• Take small bites and sips.
• Eat and drink slowly.
• Chew food thoroughly before swallowing.
• Using smaller cutlery or having smaller portions at a time can help you take small mouthfuls
• Stay upright for at least 15 minutes after meals.

Creating the right environment

• Avoid eating if you’re very tired or feeling unwell.
• Do not eat and drink if not alert
• Try not to talk while eating or drinking.
• Reduce distractions such as TV or radio.

Helpful practical adjustments

• Don’t mix food and drink together in your mouth.
• Only use straws or spouted cups if you’ve been advised to do so.
• If you wear dentures, make sure they fit well.

Helping someone eat and drink

• Make sure the person you are helping is alert
• Sit facing the individual at eye level. Being to the side or standing above a person can change their position.
• Offer food and drink at a slow pace
• Using an open cup is often easier and helps control how much someone takes
• Check they have swallowed before offering more. If not swallowing, give a verbal prompt or provide an empty teaspoon or bring a cup to their lips
• Offer little and often if this is easier

Trying these steps first is important they help many people manage symptoms safely and avoid the need for further assessment.