Abstract
Introduction Oral frailty (OF), gradual loss of oral function combined associated with presbyphagia often in conjunction with cognitive and physical decline, has been recommended to be considered as a geriatric giant. DENTAL has been suggested as a possible screening tool for OF. We have looked at the prevalence of OF and its association with dysphagia, frailty and formal care, amongst people admitted acutely to the acute medical/frailty wards in our hospital. Methods OF, dysphagia and frailty were screened for as part of the routine clinical assessment of patients during the usual clinical ward round. Screening tools used were DENTAL for OF, Rockwood Score for frailty and 4QT for dysphagia. Age, sex comorbidities and the need for formal care was documented. Results 101 people were assessed over a 4 week period. Mean age was 84 years (65-99), 58 (57.4%) were female, 31(30.7%) were independent, 33 (32.6%) dementia, 57 (56.4%) frail, 54 (53.4%) had swallowing problems, and 34 (33.6%) OF. Of those with OF 97% had dysphagia, 88% were frail and 85% required formal care support (85%). OF was associated with dysphagia (p<.0001), frailty (p< 0.0001), formal care support (p<0.05) and dementia (p<0.05). there was an association between needing (p<0.01). conclusions of is associated with dysphagia, the need for care. may result in poor oral health contribute to dysphagia frailty, conversely due dependency nutrition dehydration. associations most likely be bidirectional. further work required elucidate this. clinical staff aware include screening their assessment older adult.