Which term is used for liquids that are thicker to aid swallowing in residents with dysphagia?

• A. Thickened liquids
• B. Regular liquids
• C. Clear liquids
• D. Thin liquids

Answer: (A)

In swallowing disorders, adjusting how thick a liquid is helps manage safety and control during swallowing. By increasing viscosity, liquids move more slowly and form a more cohesive bolus, which allows the tongue and swallow muscles to coordinate better and protects the airway. This is why caregivers use liquids that have had a thickening agent added—these are known as thickened liquids. They can range from nectar-like to honey-like to pudding-like in consistency, depending on the person’s needs. Regular, clear, or thin liquids aren’t thickened and can be harder to control for someone with dysphagia, increasing the risk of aspiration.