In a definition essay, you explain the meaning of a certain term by giving a detailed description of it, and support your definition with clear examples or facts. Such explanations are needed if a term is special, abstract, disputed or does not have a common meaning.
Dysphagia has many possible causes and happens most frequently in older adults. Any condition that weakens or damages the muscles and nerves used for swallowing may cause dysphagia. For example, people with diseases of the nervous system, such as cerebral palsy or Parkinsonâs disease, often have problems swallowing.
Swallowing Problems in the Elderly. Swallowing Problems in the Elderly Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Polka Dot/Getty Images. Swallowing problems, or dysphagia, are caused by a number of problems and are quite prevalent in the elderly. Swallowing problems in the elderly can result from gastrointestinal reflux disease, problems in the stomach with digestion and esophageal cancer. Neurological diseases that plague the elderly such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's also can cause swallowing problems.