The incidence and prognostic implications of dysphagia in elderly patients institutionalized: A multicenter study in Spain
Abstract
AIM: Determine the incidence of dysphagia, identify its consequences and objectify related complications and mortality associated with pneumonia, in the institutionalized elderly.
METHODS: A prospective observational and multicenter study with a 3-year follow-up period was designed in a cohort of 12 nursing homes within 6 cities in Spain. A total of 2384 patient records were studied. Demographic and clinical data (dementia, cerebrovascular disease), as well as an evaluation of the Barthel Index, dysphagia and aspiration, and mortality at 30 days and 1 year after pneumonia in patients with dysphagia were collected.
RESULTS: Of the 2384 patients, 69.6% presented clinical signs of oropharyngeal dysphagia. Patients with dysphagia were older and showed lower functional status and higher prevalence of comorbidities. They had higher mortality as well.
CONCLUSIONS: Oropharyngeal dysphagia is a highly prevalent clinical finding in elderly institutionalized patients. Among this population, there is also a higher prevalence of pneumonia, dementia, and cerebrovascular disease and pneumonia is an indicator of mortality.
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a cohort study, done in people. Its evidence level is 3 of 5 (Moderate · trial / cohort / secondary analysis). Trials without a large randomized design, cohorts and secondary analyses give moderate evidence. Reported size: 2,384 participants or records.
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