To Investigate the Relationship between Eating and Swallowing Function and Lifestyle of the Elderly Living in the Community -A Secondary Publication

Abstract

Objectives: The relationship between eating and swallowing function, and lifestyle among community-dwelling elderly people has not been extensively studied. This study aimed to analyze the characteristics of eating and swallowing function and their association with the lifestyle among the elderly. Methods: A self-administered questionnaire survey was conducted on 419 elderly people who participated in the oral function improvement project operated by the Community Comprehensive Support Center. A total of 288 valid responses (58 males, 230 females, average age 73.6 years) were analyzed. The survey items included basic demographics, health status, lifestyle, and eating and swallowing functions. The chi-square (χ2) test was used to compare for a difference in the risk of dysphagia. Results: 72 patients (25.0%) were judged to be at risk for dysphagia, and 216 (75.0%) were judged to be not at risk for dysphagia using the revised dysphagia risk assessment scale. The mean score for oral preparatory dysphagia was the highest, while the mean score for pharyngeal dysphagia was the lowest. The group at risk of dysphagia had significant difficulty in chewing and had bad sleep quality as compared to the group that was not at risk. Conclusion: Concerning the risk of dysphagia, there is a need to maintain and improve masticatory function. In addition, improving the swallowing function of the elderly may prevent insomnia and improve sleep quality.