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[Deglutition disorders in the elderly. Epidemiological aspects].
H Finiels1, D Strubel, J M Jacquot
1Service de Gérontologie et Prévention du vieillissement, Centre Serre Cavalier, CHU de Nimes, Unité de Réadaptation gériatrique, Département de Médecíne Physique et Réadaptation, Nimes.
Presse Medicale (Paris, France : 1983)
|January 5, 2002
Summary
Deglutition disorders, or dysphagia, are common in the elderly, especially in long-term care, affecting up to 50%. These swallowing problems lead to serious health issues like dehydration and respiratory infections.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Gastroenterology
- Neurology
Background:
- Deglutition disorders (dysphagia) are prevalent in the elderly, particularly in long-term care settings, affecting up to 50% of residents.
- Physiological aging can alter swallowing parameters, increasing vulnerability in elderly individuals with existing health conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the prevalence, causes, and consequences of dysphagia in the elderly.
- To highlight the multifactorial nature of dysphagia in this population, including aging, diseases, and iatrogenic factors.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on elderly dysphagia.
- Analysis of factors contributing to swallowing difficulties in older adults.
Main Results:
- Dysphagia is frequent in very old patients and those with polypathology.
- Neurological disorders (stroke, degenerative diseases), muscular issues, anatomical changes (cancer, Zenker's diverticulitis), and iatrogenic causes (radiotherapy, surgery, intubation) are significant contributors.
- Consequences include reduced quality of life, dehydration, malnutrition, and respiratory infections.
Conclusions:
- Dysphagia in the elderly is a significant issue with diverse causes.
- It leads to severe health complications, impacting quality of life and increasing morbidity.
- Early identification and management are crucial for mitigating adverse outcomes in vulnerable elderly populations.