Food intake and presbyphagia in active elderly adults in Chillán, Chile

Abstract

The purpose of the present study was to determine the prevalence of presbyphagia in community-living elderly persons and to study nutritional status and dietary intake. Material and methods: We conducted a case-control study with persons over 65 years of age, belonging to clubs for the elderly in Chillán, Chile. Dietary intake was evaluated through a food frequency questionnaire and food modification survey created and validated for this study. Presbyphagia was diagnosed by means of the EAT-10 questionnaire and dysphagia by a speech therapist with MECV-V. The nutritional status was evaluated through the body mass index. Results: The prevalence of presbyphagia was 29.5% and dysphagia 14.5%. 74% of those with presbyphagia had excess malnutrition versus 48% of those with dysphagia, 55.5% had insufficient energy compliance, a situation that does not coincide with the prevailing nutritional status of excess malnutrition. The calories consumed were based on carbohydrates and proteins. They had a low intake of water, fiber, calcium and vitamin D and high sodium intake. Elderly persons with dysphagia took longer to eat and reported having stopped eating foods difficult to swallow such as fruits, meats and rice. Conclusion: The prevalence of community-living elderly persons with presbyphagia was 29.5% and, among those with presbyphagia, 74% had excess malnutrition. To facilitate the swallowing process, active elderly persons with dysphagia make food modifications to solid food intake.