Factors Associated with Choking During Meals; a Risk Indicator for Repetitive Fevers in The Elderly Community
Abstract: Choking during meals
is a common symptom in the elderly, however the factors associated with it have
not been fully clarified. In this study, we examined the factors associated
with choking during meals. Methods: The oral health status and practices that
promote oral health conditions was surveyed in 1305 community dwelling elderly
using a self-administered questionnaire. Eight items including satisfaction
with their oral condition, denture fit, chewing ability, tooth brushing
frequency, dental visits, exercises to train muscles for chewing and
swallowing, choking during meals, and repetitive fever were selected for
analysis. Results: 25.1% of the subjects experienced choking during meals,
which was significantly associated with repetitive fever occurrence.
Differences in satisfaction levels with their oral condition, denture fit, chewing
ability, and tooth brushing frequency were observed between groups with and
without choking. Age, satisfaction level, and chewing ability were
significantly associated with choking during meals. Conclusions: This study
demonstrated that choking during meals is a risk indicator for repetitive fever
in the elderly living in community settings. Poor chewing ability and
dissatisfaction with their oral condition were risk factors associated with
choking. These results suggest that training the elderly to eat efficiently and
safely and improving oral conditions is necessary for those who suffer from
choking during meals to prevent repetitive fever.
Keywords: chewing; elderly;
fever
Author: Takeshi Nishiyama, Emi
Nagata, Takahiko Oho
Journal Code: jpkedokterangg170249
