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Age-related changes in oral sensation
K H Calhoun1, B Gibson, L Hartley
1Department of Otolaryngology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston 77550.
The Laryngoscope
|February 1, 1992
Summary
Oral sensation remains largely intact with aging. Minor declines in tactile and stereognostic abilities were observed after age 80, but overall oral sensory function is well-preserved.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Gerontology
- Sensory Physiology
Background:
- Aging is associated with sensory changes, but the specific impact on oral sensation is not fully elucidated.
- Understanding age-related oral sensory function is crucial for maintaining quality of life and nutritional intake in older adults.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of aging on various aspects of oral sensation in healthy adults across different age groups.
- To identify specific oral sensory modalities that may decline with advanced age.
Main Methods:
- Sixty healthy adults were categorized into five age groups (20-34, 35-49, 50-64, 65-79, 80+).
- Oral sensation was assessed using tests for two-point discrimination, oral stereognosis, vibrotactile detection, somesthetic sensitivity, proprioception, and thermal sensitivity.
Main Results:
- Thermal sensitivity, somesthetic sensitivity, and proprioception showed no significant age-related changes.
- Two-point discrimination declined on the lips and cheeks after age 80.
- Oral stereognosis declined for some shapes after age 80, while vibrotactile detection on the soft palate remained stable.
Conclusions:
- Oral sensory function generally remains good throughout the aging process.
- A slight decline in specific sensory functions, particularly tactile discrimination and stereognosis, may occur after age 80.