Problemas deglutorios y calidad de vida de adultos mayores del Centro de Cuidados del Adulto Mayor, Cuenca, 2024-2025

Abstract

Background: swallowing problems are diseases that affect the digestive system, with dysphagia the most common symptom; this condition compromises older adults who suffer anatomical and physiological changes at the swallowing system. Several risk factors, such as concomitant pathologies, consumption of drugs, and use or prostheses, contribute to these problems, impairing their quality of life. Its prevalence ranges between 15 and 22% worldwide and approximately 30% in Latin America. Objectives: to determine swallowing problems and quality of life in older adults at the Elderly Care Center, Cuenca, 2024-2025. Methods: a descriptive-transversal study was conducted on 110 older adults at the Elderly Care Center. A data collection form, the EAT-10 test to evaluate dysphagia, and the SWALL-QOL to measure quality of life were used. Data analysis was carried out with SPSS version 29. Results: 35.5% of the population studied presented swallowing problems, predominantly in woman (25.5%). Of the cases, 30.9% were related to concomitant pathologies, 77.3% to drug use, and 30% to the use of dental prostheses. In the 75-79 age group, 11.8% presented swallowing problems. Regarding quality of life, 5.4% reported a ¨good¨ perception, 68.2% ¨very good¨, and 26.4% ¨excellent¨ quality of life. Conclusions: the findings underscore the importance of identifying and addressing swallowing problems to ensure comprehensive care for older adults that promotes their well-being and quality of life.