Hyoid Movement During Swallowing in Older Patients With Dysphagia

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Abstract
ALTHOUGH swallowing impairment occurs in all age groups, older persons represent the largest affected group. Isolated swallowing difficulties are present in a substantial percentage of older adults, and a common sequela of dysphagia in this age group is aspiration, with subsequent pneumonia. The prevalence of dysphagia is 50% in nursing homes.1 Furthermore, the incidence of identifiable swallowing abnormalities is greater in older patients with dysphagia compared with younger patients who have swallowing difficulties.2 The clinical effects of dysphagia in older persons warrant an in-depth analysis of the specific types of abnormalities occurring in this patient population.