Factors associated with malnutrition among older people in Swedish short‐term care: Poor oral health, dysphagia and mortality

Abstract Objectives To investigate the relationship between malnutrition and potential contributing factors such as poor oral health, dysphagia and mortality among older people in short‐term care. Methods This cross‐sectional study is a part of the multidisciplinary multicentre project SOFIA (Swallowing function, Oral health and Food Intake in old Age), which includes older people (≥65 years) in 36 short‐term care units in five regions of Sweden. Nutritional status was measured with version II of the Minimal Eating Observation and Nutrition Form (MEONF‐II), oral health with the Revised Oral Assessment Guide (ROAG), dysphagia with a water swallow test, and the mortality rate was followed for 1 year. Data were analysed using descriptive analysis and logistic regression models to calculate odds ratios for the association between malnutrition and these factors. Results Among the 391 participants, the median age was 84 years and 53.3% were women. Mortality rate was 25.1% within 1 year in the total group, and was higher among malnourished participants than among their well‐nourished counterparts. Severe dysphagia (OR: 6.51, 95% CI: 2.40–17.68), poor oral health (OR: 5.73, 95% CI: 2.33–14.09) and female gender (OR: 2.2, 95% CI: 1.24–3.93) were independently associated with malnutrition. Conclusion Mortality rate was higher among malnourished people than those who were well nourished. Severe dysphagia, poor oral health and female gender was predictors of malnutrition among older people in short‐term care. These health risks should be given more attention in short‐term care with early identification.