Which of the following can help prevent choking in residents?

The choice to ensure residents are sitting upright during meals and provide soft foods if needed is crucial for preventing choking. When residents are in an upright position, it facilitates safe swallowing by allowing gravity to assist in the process and reducing the risk of food or liquid entering the airway. Additionally, offering soft foods can significantly aid those who may have difficulty with chewing or swallowing, as they are easier to manage and less likely to cause blockages in the throat.

Sitting upright not only promotes better digestion but also encourages proper posture, which is essential for swallowing safely. Soft foods can include items such as mashed potatoes, applesauce, and yogurt, which are less likely to cause choking compared to harder or more solid foods. Therefore, adopting these practices is key in ensuring a safer eating environment for residents.