Which program is recommended to prevent aspiration in nursing home residents?

A mouth care program is essential in preventing aspiration among nursing home residents due to its impact on oral hygiene and the prevention of dysphagia-related complications. Good oral care helps reduce the buildup of bacteria in the mouth, which can be inhaled into the lungs, leading to aspiration pneumonia and other respiratory infections. Regular oral hygiene practices, including brushing teeth and maintaining moist oral tissues, can significantly decrease the risk of food and fluids entering the airway, especially in residents who may have swallowing difficulties.

While physical therapy plays a role in enhancing the strength and coordination of swallowing muscles, its direct focus on aspiration prevention is less critical than that of a structured mouth care program. Intravenous hydration may be relevant for hydration purposes but does not address the mechanisms leading to aspiration. Mobility assistance can help residents who may otherwise struggle to move safely but does not directly relate to the prevention of aspiration incidents linked to poor oral health. Thus, a mouth care program stands out as the simplest and most direct measure to mitigate aspiration risks in nursing home settings.