Physiological Alterations in Swallowing in Elderly People: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Many changes in swallowing function occur in the elderly, age-related swallowing alterations are well-researched and frequently identify people above sixty as older people. The effect of age on swallowing should be clarified to improve. Understanding the impact of age on swallowing has implications for differentiating between swallowing difficulties associated with ageing and those associated with specific medical conditions. Older folks are living longer and in better health than ever before, with many living past 85 years of age. To effectively address swallowing issues in elderly patients, doctors must comprehend healthy swallowing modifications in the "oldest old". This systematic review compiled and evaluated papers that used instrumental evaluation to look at alterations in swallowing in persons over 85. Participants over 85 who were in good health were required for participation. Studies that focused on oral functioning and anatomy were prohibited .Two thousand two hundred thirty-six (2236) papers from investigations up to 2018 were gathered from Scopus, Embase, CINAHL, Medline, and BIOSIS. Because the oldest old were not enrolled, 86% of investigations examining age-related swallowing alterations were disregarded after data screening. Thirteen articles passed the PRISMA assessment and were considered. These were then examined for quality, bias, and data extractions. The primary quantitative abnormalities in swallowing associated with ageing were an increase in the swallow onset delays, bolus transit times. Identify of the ‘normal’ for swallowing in elderly is important to clinical and instrumental swallow examinations and to inform interventions that might effect on the person’s life. Fewer papers found elevated residue or aspiration-related airway impairment. Due to differences in age groups, criteria for classifying individuals as "healthy," measurements employed to define swallowing physiology, and swallowing activities, findings could not be easily compared. There are identified swallowing alterations that are caused by ageing but do not endanger safety. Normative deglutition study underrepresents the oldest old. It is crucial that future research consider recruiting people above 85 years old.