Feeding of the Elderly: Understanding the Role of Mastication

Age-related tooth loss and declining oral function in seniors lead to difficulties in mastication and swallowing, prompting choices of softer but less nutritious foods. Inadequate chewing yields poorly formed food boluses that delay digestion, impair nutrient breakdown within the food matrix, and reduce absorption. Declines in oral sensory stimulation also disrupt reflex mechanisms that prepare the digestive tract for incoming food. Epidemiological data highlight strong associations between edentulousness and malnutrition, underscoring the need to consider oral health status when adapting dietary recommendations for aging populations.