ISSN : 0376-4672
With a dramatic increase in the older population, there is a growing interest in strategies for managing oral disorders in the elderly. This study aims to introduce oral frailty and propose dental and oral health services for older people. This study reviewed the literature on oral frailty and frailty in older people by searching academic databases, government documents, and related websites. There is a growing awareness that the recovery and maintenance of oral function help delay the onset of frailty and conditions requiring nursing care, thereby extending a healthy life expectancy. The Japanese Society of Gerodontology (JSG) proposed the concept of oral hypofunction. JSG defined oral hypofunction as a presentation of 7 signs or symptoms: oral uncleanness, oral dryness, a decline in occlusal force, decline in the motor function of the tongue and lips, decrease in tongue pressure, decline in chewing function, and reduction in the swallowing function. JSG suggested diagnosing oral hypofunction if the criteria for three or more signs or symptoms are met. More evidence should be gathered from clinical studies and trials in the Korean community care setting to develop better diagnostic criteria and management strategies for the Korean elderly. Better health in older people can be achieved by strengthening the dental and oral health provider’s accountability of healthcare systems. The evolving concept of oral frailty paves the way for effective dental care for the elderly in Korea.
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