요양병원 노인의 연하장애에 따른 인지기능과 신체기능

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study was to examine the cognitive and physical functions based on dysphagia in elderly patients geriatric hospitals.

Method This study included 210 elderly persons aged ≥65 years who were in three geriatric hospitals in the city of B. The data were collected between January 28, 2019 and March 28, 2019. The presence of dysphagia was evaluated using the Gugging Swallowing Screen (GUSS), cognitive function was evaluated using the Korean Mini Mental State Examination (K-MMSE), and physical function was evaluated using the Korean Activity of Daily Living (K-ADL). The data were analyzed by descriptive statistics, χ-test, Fisher’s exact test and independent t-test using SPSS/WIN 23.0 program.

Results 1. The prevalence of dysphagia was 66.7% in elderly patients geriatric hospitals. 2. There were statistically significant differences in the dysphagia according to age (χ=4.58, p=.032), nervous system disease (χ=38.76, p<.001), respiratory system disease (χ=22.0, p<.001), medication related to dysphagia (χ=8.33, p=.004) and BMI (χ=9.10, p=.018). 3. There were statistically significant differences cognitive function (t=10.11, p<.001) and physical function (t=-11.0, p<.001) according to the dysphagia.

Conclusion Elderly patients with dysphagia at geriatric hospitals exhibited reduced cognitive and physical functions. These findings are expected to be utilized in clinical practice and training of patients and nurses to provide a foundation for early screening of dysphagia, with the ultimate goal of reducing and preventing complications.