Prevalence of Oral Frailty and Its Associated Factors Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults

Abstract

Oral frailty is a decline in oral function. The prevention of a decline in oral function has been promoted among older adults. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and associated factors of oral frailty among community-dwelling older adults. We conducted a questionnaire survey and the physical assessment of 93 older adults aged ≥65 years who visited an elderly welfare center in Hokkaido A city. Oral frailty was assessed using the Oral Frailty Index-8. The prevalence of oral frailty was 66.7%, and the number of remaining teeth and reduction of subjective walking speed were significantly associated with oral frailty. These factors should be considered important for the assessment of oral frailty and preventive measures. Furthermore, more than half of older adults in this study were at risk for oral frailty, suggesting the need for awareness of oral health and early treatment options among older adults.