urse Aide Practice Exam 2025 - Free Nurse Aide Practice Questions and Study Guide

Weaker chewing muscles are a significant risk factor for elderly residents that increase their chances of choking. As people age, they often experience a decline in muscle strength, including the muscles used for chewing. This weakening can be due to various factors, such as age-related changes in muscle tissue, dental issues, or neurological conditions that affect swallowing.

When the strength of chewing muscles diminishes, individuals may struggle to break down food effectively, leading to larger pieces being swallowed without adequate chewing. This not only makes the swallowing process more difficult but also raises the risk of food becoming lodged in the throat, which can result in choking. It is important for caregivers to be aware of this risk and possibly modify diets by providing softer foods or recommending changes in eating habits to enhance safety during meals.

The other options do not directly impact the mechanics of chewing in a way that significantly increases choking risks. For example, improper sleeping positions generally do not affect swallowing but may lead to other issues. High levels of physical activity are typically beneficial and do not correlate with choking risks in a way that weaker chewing muscles do. Lastly, excessive hydration can aid in swallowing and does not inherently increase the risk of choking.