Depression is Associated with Chewing and Swallowing Function among Elderly Vendors in a Conventional Market: A Preliminary Research / 대한연하장애학회지

ABSTRACT

Objective@#This study aimed to investigate the level of chewing and swallowing function (CSF) and the factors related to CSF among elderly vendors in a conventional market. @*Methods@#The cross-sectional study was conducted between August 10 through September 8, 2020, using a self-reporting questionnaire to collect data. The study sample comprised 61 elderly vendors aged 65 years and over, from a conventional market at Jeju-si. CSF was measured using the Questionnaire for Chewing and Swallowing Function of the elderly, and depression was assessed by applying the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. @*Results@#Chewing and swallowing dysfunctions were reported by 34.4% of elderly vendors. CSF was significantly associated with the current smoking status (β=0.39, P=0.001) and depression (β=0.33, P=0.006). @*Conclusion@#These results indicate that current smoker and depression are significant factors affecting CSF. The factors determined in this study may be used in community health programs for preventing and managing chewing and swallowing dysfunction among the elderly vendors in a conventional market.