Understanding oral and swallowing function in older adults
Characterizing Oral and Swallowing Function in Older Adults Presenting to the Emergency Department
University of Wisconsin, Madison · NCT06368830
This study looks at how well older adults can eat and swallow when they come to the emergency room to see if their problems are connected to other health issues.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 200 (estimated) |
| Ages | 60 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Wisconsin, Madison (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Madison, Wisconsin) |
| Trial ID | NCT06368830 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to investigate oral and swallowing function in older adults who visit the emergency department. It hypothesizes that many older adults experience issues with these functions, which may be linked to other health conditions. During their emergency visit, participants will undergo various assessments, including saliva sampling, a bedside water swallow test, oral function evaluations, respiratory function tests, and surveys. The study seeks to clarify the relationship between oral health, dysphagia, and the upper airway microbiome in this population.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are older adults aged 60 and above who are clinically stable and able to safely consume water and solid food.
Not a fit: Patients who are prisoners or non-English speaking may not benefit from this study due to eligibility restrictions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved assessment and management of swallowing difficulties in older adults, potentially reducing the risk of pneumonia.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this study may be novel, there is existing literature on the importance of assessing oral and swallowing function in older adults, suggesting potential for success.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age ≥ 60 * Clinically stable and able (not NPO) to safely drink water and eat a saltine cracker per ED provider Exclusion Criteria: * Prisoner * Non-English speaking
Where this trial is running
Madison, Wisconsin
- University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health — Madison, Wisconsin, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Michael S Pulia, MD, PhD — University of Wisconsin, Madison
- Study coordinator: Michael S Pulia, MD, PhD
- Email: mpulia-lab@medicine.wisc.edu
- Phone: 608-262-2908
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Oropharyngeal Dysphagia