Association Between Oral Hypofunction and Maximum Gait Speed in Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study

Previous studies have reported an association between oral hypofunction and normal gait speed as a marker for physical function; however, the association between maximum gait speed as a more sensitive marker for physical function and poor oral function has not been investigated.

To elucidate associations of oral hypofunction, comprising seven elements, with both normal and maximum gait speeds in an older population.

Participants were recruited in 2018 from a hospital-based health checkup in Kyoto Prefecture. Seven oral function tests (oral hygiene, oral dryness, occlusal force or number of teeth, tongue-lip motor function, tongue pressure, masticatory function and swallowing function) were performed. Oral hypofunction was defined as an abnormality in at least three of these items. Gait speed was measured as normal and maximum gait speeds. The relationship between oral hypofunction and maximum gait speed was analysed using logistic regression.

This study included 198 participants (130 men and 68 women; mean age: 75.0 years). Among them, 152 (76.7%) had oral hypofunction. After adjustment for age, sex and body mass index, oral hypofunction was significantly associated with a low maximum gait speed (odds ratio: 2.75, 95% confidence interval: 1.41-5.37).

Oral hypofunction is associated with maximum gait speed in older people. The prevention of oral hypofunction may help maintain walking speed and promote an increase in healthy life expectancy.