An exploratory study on the prevalence of dysphagia and malnutrition risk among older residents in care homes

Dysphagia, a prevalent condition among older adults, poses significant challenges to safe food consumption and nutritional adequacy, increasing the risk of malnutrition and aspiration. This study aimed to assess dysphagia severity, nutritional status, swallowing quality of life, and food consumption patterns in geriatric dysphagia patient in care homes. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 53 individuals aged 60-90 years across 12 care homes in Tamil Nadu, India. Dysphagia severity was assessed using Eating Assessment Tool (EAT-10). Nutritional status was assessed using the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) tool. The Swallowing Quality of Life Questionnaire (SWAL-QOL) was used to assess quality of life related to deglutition. Dietary intake was evaluated using the 24-h dietary recall method with caregiver assistance. Among the 53 participants, high dysphagia risk (71-82%) and malnutrition prevalence (28-36%) were observed. Aspiration risk increased from 18 to 29% with advancing age. SWAL-QOL scores declined with age (p = 0.026). Cereal consumption was 20% higher, while the consumption of pulses (42.9-51%), fruits (12-29%), and vegetables (12.8-14%) was lower than the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA). These results highlights the necessity of integrating culturally appropriate texture-modified diets, nutrient-dense formulations, and hydration strategies to mitigate dysphagia-related risks and improve life quality.