Association of dysphagia with physical performance and fall risk in frail older adults

Dysphagia is a prevalent geriatric syndrome that precipitates malnutrition and sarcopenia, which may accelerate physical decline and increase fall risk. However, the direct interplay between swallowing function and physical performance remains underexplored. This study aimed to evaluate the associations among dysphagia, physical performance, and fall risk in frail older adults. This retrospective observational study included 109 prefrail or frail older patients admitted to a geriatric outpatient department. Data collected included baseline characteristics, geriatric assessment components, and dysphagia status. Dysphagia was diagnosed based on the Gugging Swallowing Screen and water swallow test. Geriatric assessment components included frailty, activities of daily living, mood, nutritional risk, physical performance, fall incidence, and fall risk. Multiple linear and logistic regression models were used to investigate the association between dysphagia and geriatric outcomes. Among the 109 patients (median age, 78 years; males, 36.7%), 30.3% presented with dysphagia. Patients with dysphagia had more comorbidities, lower Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) scores, and a higher percentage of patients at risk of falls than those without dysphagia. After adjusting for baseline characteristics, dysphagia was associated with a decreased SPPB score (β = -1.46, confidence interval (CI) = [-2.79, -0.14], p = 0.031) and an increased risk of falls (odds ratio = 10.24, CI = [1.90, 96.86], p = 0.017). Frail older patients with dysphagia tend to exhibit poorer physical performance and have an increased risk of falls. Our findings underscore the significance of incorporating routine swallowing assessments into geriatric care to identify at-risk individuals and provide timely interventions. Not applicable.