Association between oral health conditions and body composition in patients aged 60 years or older attending sarcopenia and malnutrition clinic.

BACKGROUND

Oral health conditions may influence nutritional status and muscle health in older adults, potentially contributing to sarcopenia. However, studies exploring this relationship show methodological heterogeneity and often rely on self-reported oral health, limiting comparability and applicability in clinical settings. The objective of this study is to evaluate the different components of oral health and their association with sarcopenia in a specialized sarcopenia and malnutrition clinic.

METHODS

An observational and cross-sectional study carried out in a clinic specialized in sarcopenia and malnutrition. 55 patients evaluated between March 1, 2023, and September 30, 2024, were included. A bivariate analysis was performed between oral health conditions as independent variables and sarcopenia.

RESULTS

The sample was mainly composed of women (67.3%) with an average age of 74.6 years. A high prevalence of oral disorders was identified, highlighting edentulism (69.1%), xerostomia (50.9%), periodontitis (25.5%), and candidiasis (25.5%). Bivariate analysis revealed a significant association between oral candidiasis and body composition abnormalities.

CONCLUSIONS

Oral alterations are common in older adults with sarcopenia; specifically, oral candidiasis is associated with low muscle mass or strength, and with sarcopenia. Further studies are needed to understand the involved mechanisms and develop oral health interventions to prevent these conditions.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: Geriatric nurses and other healthcare providers should incorporate oral health screening into sarcopenia assessments. Prioritizing the early detection and management of candidiasis, xerostomia, and edentulism by nursing staff facilitates timely multidisciplinary care to improve nutrition and prevent muscle loss in older adults.