Calf circumference and serum albumin level are the reliable biomarkers for predicting the chewing ability and nutritional status of the elderly people.

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: The relationship among chewing ability, food texture selection, and nutritional status in the elderly is well-known. This study tried to find the reliable biomarkers to predict the chewing ability and nutritional status of the elderly people.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixty-eight elderly subjects (mean age, 80.38 ± 7.32 years) were enrolled in this study. Oral examinations assessed the number of total teeth, pair of antagonistic teeth, and type of dentures in participants. Sociodemographic data, dietary habits, and medical history were collected via self-reported questionnaires. Nutritional status was assessed based on the calf circumference and serum albumin level measurements.

RESULTS

The elderly individuals with fewer number of total teeth, fewer pairs of antagonistic teeth, or the removable dentures preferred minced and moist food textures. These preferences were significantly associated with the smaller calf circumference (31.29 ± 4.08 cm,  < 0.05) and lower serum albumin levels (3.52 ± 0.63 g/dL,  < 0.001) compared to those with better chewing ability. The elderly participants with <20 total teeth, <10 pairs of antagonistic teeth, or the removable dentures showed significantly lower calf circumference and serum albumin levels than those with ≥20 total teeth, ≥10 pairs of antagonistic teeth, or the fixed dentures, respectively (all -values <0.05).

CONCLUSION

Optimal chewing ability is crucial for maintaining an adequate nutritional status in the elderly people. The calf circumference and serum albumin level are found to be the reliable biomarkers for predicting the chewing ability and nutritional status of the elderly people.