Ageing and swallowing Flashcards
Prevalence and causes of swallowing difficulties in older adults
Dysphagia prevalence in elderly populations (most figures are from US):
Up to 68% of elderly nursing home residents
Up to 30% of elderly people admitted to hospital
13-38% of elderly people who live independently
Two factors contribute to increased risk of swallowing difficulties in older adults:
Dysphagia is a feature of many age-related diseases and/or their treatments - major contribution
Normal ageing processes affect swallowing mechanisms – presbyphagia
(Gr. presbys ‘old’ + swallowing) - minor but important contribution
What are the main effects of ageing on swallowing?
Primary effects of ageing on swallowing are slower overall speed of swallowing movements and increased transit time
What causes swallowing difficulties in normal ageing?
Muscle atrophy and reduced strength
Reduction connective tissue elasticity → reduced range of TMJ motion
Altered sensory function, reduced gag reflex and taste perception
Changes in central control of swallowing
Reduced “reserve capacity” – age-related reduction in ability to compensate when a system or process isn’t running efficiently
Initiation of laryngeal and pharyngeal events, including airway closure, is slower
Airway may remain open for longer while food and fluids lodge in the adjacent pharyngeal recesses, increasing the risk of aspiration
Airway penetration is more common, deeper in the airway and more severe than in younger adults
Changes in dentition (= arrangement, number and condition of teeth)
