Hi. While at the nursing home 2 days ago, I noticed my father (92) wasn't sucking on the straw when I was giving him his drink. I had to say "SUCK" and he'd do it a couple times then stop. Then... after I fed him, I noticed he was moving his mouth and I saw food in between his lips. It took a few minutes but I got him to spit out what was in his mouth... he had not swallowed all of his food. This is the first time I've seen this with him. Also, he used to clean his plate but now he is down to about almost half. He likes his ice cream though and puddings.
I was told that this pretty much means he has entered the 'end stage/advanced stage'. : (
He may need pureed foods and thickened liquids in order to prevent aspiration.