PREDICTORS OF ORAL INTAKE DIFFICULTY IN OLDER PATIENTS WITH DYSPHAGIA

The aim of this study was to identify the predictors of oral intake difficulty in older patients with dysphagia. The subjects were 133 hospitalized older individuals with dysphagia. They were divided into two groups according to the oral intake ability: the oral intake and non-oral intake groups. Swallowing function was measured with a graded water swallowing test and a food intake level scale. Functional status was evaluated with a physical dependency scale and a comprehension scale. Nutritional status was measured with anthropometric measures and serum albumin levels. The non-oral intake group was significantly impaired in the swallowing measures, physical dependency, and mid-upper arm circumference. Multivariate analysis revealed that impairment in mid-upper arm circumference and graded water swallowing test were independently associated with oral intake difficulty. In conclusion, swallowing impairment, advanced body mass reduction, and physical dependency were the significant predictors of oral intake difficulty in older patients with dysphagia.