In a videofluoroscopic swallow study, what finding is considered typical for geriatric patients?

In a videofluoroscopic swallow study, the finding of liquid bolus entry before hyolaryngeal excursion is typical for geriatric patients. As individuals age, the physiological processes involved in swallowing may become less coordinated. In this context, the hyolaryngeal excursion, which is a crucial component for ensuring that the airway is protected during swallowing, may occur late relative to the entry of the bolus into the pharynx.

In older adults, the onset of the swallow reflex may show delays, making it more common to observe bolus entry before adequate protection of the airway is achieved. This can lead to an increased risk of aspiration, which is a significant concern in this population.

The presence of other findings, such as significant vallecular retention, nasopharyngeal regurgitation, or oral pocketing, can also occur in geriatric patients but are not as universally characteristic of this age group as the delayed hyolaryngeal excursion. Understanding these typical patterns helps clinicians identify safe swallowing strategies and interventions for older adults during assessment and treatment of dysphagia.