Dysphagia Checklist for Aged Care Management: Questions for Your Next Quality Review

Choking has been identified as the second-highest cause of preventable death in residential aged care. That makes clear, consistent dysphagia management important—but it does not mean your team needs to solve every gap at once.

Start by identifying where your current system needs the most support. It may be referral pathways, access to mealtime plans, communication with the kitchen, IDDSI processes, staff confidence or documentation.

Workforce turnover can make this harder. New, agency and rotating staff need practical guidance they can find and use during a busy meal service. A clear process gives staff confidence to follow individual recommendations, ask questions early and escalate concerns when needed.

Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Small improvements to communication, training and day-to-day systems can make a meaningful difference to residents, families and staff.

Download the free Dysphagia Management Checklist for Aged Care Facilities here:

https://swallowing-dysphagia-support.kit.com/3ef7dd906e

We provide IDDSI Training and Dysphagia Education