From the OFRE framework to the S-OFRE model: a mechanism-based reconstruction

Objectives: Oral function decline in older adults is associated with impaired mastication, swallowing, speech, and salivary secretion, which increases the risk of malnutrition, sarcopenia, and aspiration pneumonia.Although oral function rehabilitation exercise (OFRE) has been proposed as a non-invasive intervention, its diverse components and lack of standardization limit its application in clinical and community settings.This study aimed to reconstruct a preliminary selective oral function rehabilitation exercise (S-OFRE) model using a validated OFRE framework.Methods: This study used a previously developed and validated conceptual framework for OFRE.The intervention components were classified based on their functional domains, and their functional effects were analyzed to identify common core mechanisms.A preliminary selective intervention model was then reconstructed based on the identified core mechanisms and its feasibility for practical implementation.Results: The intervention components were classified into six functional domains: mastication, swallowing, articulation, tongue function, salivary function, and oral closure/facial coordination.Three core mechanisms were identified: muscle strengthening, coordination and motor control, and functional stimulation.Based on these findings, a preliminary S-OFRE model and 10-12-min implementation protocol were reconstructed, considering their potential use in community and long-term care settings.Conclusions: A preliminary S-OFRE model and an implementation protocol were reconstructed based on a validated conceptual framework, while preserving the identified core mechanisms.The proposed model provides a basis for implementing oral function rehabilitation in clinical and community settings.Further studies are required to validate this model and evaluate its clinical effectiveness and feasibility.