The use of a myofunctional device in an aged care population for oral care and swallowing: A feasibility study

Abstract

Purpose: Poor oral health is a known predictor of aspiration pneumonia in vulnerable populations such as the elderly and chronically ill. This study examined the feasibility of using myofunctional devices during a 5-week intervention for the management of oral care and dysphagia for residents in a residential aged-care facility. Method: Feasibility was determined through evaluation of study recruitment and retention rates, adherence to intervention, and resident and staff acceptability of the intervention. Thirteen residents, ages 74–99, participated in the intervention and 10 care staff completed feedback on post-intervention questionnaires. Results: Enrolment and retention rates were 61.9% and 92.3%, respectively. Adherence rates for use of the device were 92.6% at 3 weeks, and 89.3% at 5 weeks for the 12 participants who completed the protocol. The device was considered acceptable for ease of use, comfort, and amount of support required. Conclusion: Results indicate that further research exploring device use in an aged care population for the management of dysphagia and oral hygiene is feasible.