Oral Frailty and Social Frailty Among Older Japanese

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Oral Health

Background:

• Social frailty (SF) is a growing concern among aging populations, impacting overall well-being.
• Oral frailty (OF) encompasses various oral health issues that may affect older adults' daily lives.
• Understanding the interplay between oral health and social connection is crucial for geriatric care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between oral frailty (OF) and social frailty (SF) in independent, community-dwelling older adults in Japan.
• To identify specific components of oral frailty that contribute to social frailty.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study utilized data from 19,319 functionally independent Japanese adults aged 65 and above from the 2022 JAGES wave.
• Oral frailty was assessed using categorical variables, a count score of 5 components, individual components, and a combined oral function variable.
• Social frailty was measured using the 5-item index (SF-5). Adjusted ordered logistic regression models were employed.

Main Results:

• A significant association was found between oral frailty and social frailty, with higher odds of SF observed in individuals with OF.
• The highest oral frailty score (score 5) showed the greatest odds of social frailty (OR 2.53).
• Dry mouth (OR 1.29) and having four diminished oral functions (OR 2.42) were strongly associated with social frailty.

Conclusions:

• Oral frailty and its components are significantly associated with social frailty in older Japanese adults.
• Findings suggest a need for integrated screening and preventive strategies to address social vulnerability stemming from oral functional decline.
• Interventions targeting oral health may play a role in mitigating social isolation and vulnerability in the elderly population.