Sir Alex Ferguson, the legendary manager of Manchester United, was also famous for his habit of chewing gum during matches. During his 26-year tenure, overseeing more than 1,500 games, he is estimated to have chewed at least 3,000 pieces of gum. (Photo courtesy of Manchester United Club)
GWANGJU, Oct. 17 (Korea Bizwire) — Combining chewing gum exercises with electrical stimulation therapy can significantly strengthen oral muscles and improve swallowing function among older adults, according to new research from Chosun University.
A research team led by Professor Choi Jong-bae from the university’s Department of Occupational Therapy found that pairing gum-chewing exercises with targeted electrical stimulation to the jaw muscles produced measurable improvements in chewing strength, muscle thickness, and oral moisture — key indicators of healthy swallowing.
The study focused on older adults suffering from sarcopenic dysphagia, a condition in which age-related muscle loss weakens chewing and saliva production, often leading to nutritional deficiencies and declining health.
Researchers divided 40 participants aged 65 and older into two groups — one performing only gum-chewing exercises, and another combining the exercises with electrical stimulation therapy to the masticatory muscles. After four weeks, the combined-therapy group showed far greater improvement in oral strength and hydration levels than the exercise-only group.
The team concluded that electrical stimulation more effectively activates oral muscles, enhancing both mastication and salivary gland function.
Professor Choi emphasized that the dual therapy model could be easily adopted in community centers or at home, without requiring specialized medical equipment, offering an accessible rehabilitation option for seniors.
Chosun University said it plans to integrate the findings into community health programs and occupational therapy training to help improve elderly nutrition and quality of life.
The study, with Professor Choi as corresponding author, was published in the September issue of the Journal of Oral Rehabilitation, a leading international journal in the field of oral rehabilitation science.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
