Aspiration is defined as the abnormal process of inhalations through the throat of saliva, nasopharyngeal secretions, bacteria, foods and so on, and is a usual troublesome for the elderly in clinical practice. Complications resulting from aspiration, such as asphyxia and pneumonia, are common causes of death in the elderly. As the population aging, the incidence of aspiration in the elderly is increased. So, with the aim at effectively preventing and treating aspiration in the elderly, we analyzed its risk factors and reviewed its clinical management for diagnosis and treatments.