Relationship between Voluntary Cough Intensity and the Respiratory, Physical, Oral and Swallowing Functions of the Community-dwelling Elderly

Abstract

[Purpose] This study investigated the relationship between voluntary cough intensity and respiratory, physical, oral and swallowing functions of the community-dwelling elderly. [Subjects and Methods] One hundred forty-three community-dwelling elderly persons over the age of 65 participated in this study. Voluntary cough intensity was evaluated by cough peak flow (CPF), and respiratory function was evaluated by forced vital capacity (FVC), maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP), maximal expiratory pressure, and chest and abdominal wall mobility. Physical function was evaluated by the 30-second chair-stand and Timed Up and Go tests. The oral and swallowing functions were evaluated by oral diadochokinesis and the repetitive saliva swallowing test. [Results] The percentage of the elderly subjects with abnormal CPF (CPF <240 L/min) was 16%. The respiratory, physical and swallowing functions were significantly lower in the group with abnormal CPF. Multiple regression analysis revealed FVC and MIP were significantly associated with CPF. [Conclusion] The results indicated that 16% of community-dwelling elderly decreased CPF, suggesting the importance of keeping FVC and MIP in order to maintain CPF.