Evaluation of a Japanese Prevention of Long-term Care project for the improvement in oral function in the high-risk elderly

Aim: The purpose of this study was to analyze the improvement in oral function and environment in high-risk elderly persons participating in a program to improve oral function organized by their local government. Methods: Participants comprised 36 high-risk elderly and the mean age was 77.11 +/- 7.24years. The program involved training sessions carried out five or six times every 23weeks for 3months. Oral function and environment was evaluated before and after the program. The research period extended from 2008 to 2010. Results: The effects of intervention were clearly observed in oral diadochokinesis score in the high-risk elderly. Persons with a lower repetitive saliva swallowing test (RSST) and oral diadochokinesis score before intervention showed a tendency toward even greater improvement. No significant changes were observed in saliva secretion or total amounts of Streptococcusmutans, Lactobacilli, Candida or total microorganisms. Conclusions: The effects of intervention were clearly recognized in regards to oral diadochokinesis. Improvement in RSST and oral diadochokinesis scores was marked in those persons showing a lower number of articulations before intervention. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2013; 13: 451457.