Assessing Older Adults' Masticatory Efficiency

作者:Cusson Valerie; Caron Christian; Gaudreau Pierrette; Morais Jose A; Shatenstein Bryna; Payette Helene*
来源:Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 2015, 63(6): 1192-1196.
DOI:10.1111/jgs.13443

摘要

ObjectivesTo determine internal consistency and criterion validity of a questionnaire assessing perception of masticatory efficiency in community-dwelling older adults. DesignSecondary cross-sectional analysis of baseline data from the Quebec Longitudinal Study on Nutrition and Successful Aging (NuAge). SettingNuAge is a 5-year (2003-08) observational study of 1,793 men and women aged 67 to 84 in good general health at recruitment. ParticipantsA sample of 1,789 was used to determine internal consistency of the questionnaire. A subsample (n=94) of the cohort who underwent a clinical test directly measuring masticatory efficiency was used to determine criterion validity of the questionnaire. MeasurementsThe questionnaire was a subset of the Oral Health Impact Profile containing 7 Likert-scale questions (score 0-28 points). Masticatory efficiency was assessed using a validated clinical test measuring ability to chew a raw carrot (Swallowing Threshold Test Index, score 0-100%). For perceived and measured data, a higher score indicated better masticatory efficiency. ResultsInternal consistency of the questionnaire was deemed good (Cronbach alpha=0.803). Mean scores were generally high (men, 25.3, 95% confidence interval (CI)=24.7-25.9; women, 24.3, 95% CI=23.7-25.0), indicating good perceived masticatory efficiency for men and women. Mean performance test scores were low (men, 60.8%, 95% CI=57.3-64.2; women, 61.2%, 95% CI=57.7-64.7). No significant relationship between perceived and measured masticatory efficiency was observed (Pearson correlation coefficient=-0.14, P=.22). ConclusionDespite good internal consistency of the questionnaire and the recognized validity of the test, people's perception of their masticatory efficiency does not reflect objective efficiency as measured using a clinical test.

  • 出版日期2015-6
  • 单位McGill