Oral frailty and nutritional appetite in older adults: a cross-sectional, moderated mediation model of oral self-efficacy and personal mastery.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Oral frailty is significantly associated with poor appetite in older adults. While the underlying psychological mechanisms are thought to be universal, their expression can be shaped by local contexts. This study investigated these mechanisms in China, where population aging and specific healthcare system characteristics create a pressing need for such research. This study examined the mediating role of oral self-efficacy and the moderating role of personal mastery in the relationship between oral frailty and nutritional appetite among older Chinese adults.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted from January 17 to February 17, 2025, in Jiangsu Province, China, involving 959 community-dwelling older adults ≥ 60 years. Participants were recruited via conve

SUBMITTER: Xia S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12482681 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature