A comparison of oral health, nutrition, and swallowing function in older adults with and without sarcopenia: A cross‐sectional study

Abstract Background Sarcopenia, the age‐related loss of muscle mass and strength, may impact the muscles involved in oral functions and swallowing, leading to challenges that may impact quality of life in older adults. The aim of the study was to compare oral health, swallowing function, and malnutrition of older adults with and without sarcopenia. Materials and Methods The cross‐sectional study included volunteers ≥65 years of age. Sarcopenia status was evaluated by anthropometric (calf circumference and midupper arm circumference) and muscle strength (walking speed and handgrip strength) measurements. Oral health was assessed with the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP‐14), swallowing function was assessed by the Eating Assessment Tool‐10 (EAT‐10), and nutrition status was determined using the Mini Nutritional Assessment. Results This study included 65 older adults. The mean age was 80 years, 54% were female, and 43% were diagnosed with sarcopenia. Individuals with sarcopenia had a higher OHIP‐14 score (which indicates poor quality of life related to oral and dental health, 16 ± 8 vs 11 ± 7; P = 0.008), were more likely to have a EAT‐10 score ≥ 3 (indicating presence of dysphagia, 79% vs 41%; P = 0.002), and were more likely to be at risk for malnutrition (79% vs 54%; P = 0.03) compared with individuals without sarcopenia. Conclusions Older adults with sarcopenia may be at risk for poor quality of life related to oral health, malnutrition and dysphagia. Further studies with long‐term follow‐up are needed to determine the long‐term effects of sarcopenia on oral health, swallowing function, and malnutrition in older adults.