[Purpose] The present study, was conducted to examine the occlusal force and physical, cognitive, and attentional functions of elderly females living in the community to evaluate the significance of measuring the occlusal force. [Subjects and Methods] The number of subjects was 104. The Occlusal Force Meter GM10 was used to measure their occlusal force. Their physical functions were assessed using eight examinations, including the 30-second Chair Stand Test, and the cognitive functions of the Mini-Mental State Examination and attention functions of the Trail Making Test. [Results] Significant correlations were noted between the occlusal force and all measurements, except for the results of forward bending in a sitting position. Multiple regression analysis was conducted with the occlusal force as an objective variable, and significant partial correlations were noted with the 30-second Chair Stand Test. [Conclusion] These results suggest that it is necessary to provide the elderly with comprehensive support focusing on maintaining their occlusal force, as a nursing care-prevention measure, to help them continue to live a healthy, independent life.

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to evaluate the lower limb muscle strength of the community-dwelling elderly, with or without cognitive decline, using isometric knee extension strength (IKES) and the 30-second chair stand test (CS-30). [Subjects] A total of 306 community-dwelling elderly participated in this study. Assessment items were the CS-30, IKES, Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and Trail-Making Test Part A (TMT-A). [Methods] Participants were divided into three groups according to their MMSE score: cognitive impairment (MMSE ≤ 24), cognitive decline (MMSE 25 to 27), and normal (MMSE ≥ 28). We compared IKES and CS-30 among the three groups. [Results] IKES was not significantly different among the three groups. However, the CS-30 was significantly different among the three groups. Upon further analysis the CS-30 score of each group, when adjusted for age and TMT-A, did not indicate a significant difference. [Conclusion] These results suggest that the lower limb muscle strength of the elderly does not differ with cognitive decline. Moreover, we suggest that when using the CS-30 score as an indicator of lower limb muscle strength attentional function should be taken into account.

[Purpose] To determine and compare changes over time in the physical strength of male and female children aged 4–5 years by measuring physical functions such as occlusal forces. [Subjects and Methods] The occlusal force, weight, height, grip strength, standing long jump, ball throwing, timed up and go (TUG), and the 25-m run time were measured of 331 children to determine their physical strength. All the children understood and were capable of completing all tests. [Results] Occlusal force among male infants significantly correlated with all items except ball throwing. Stepwise multiple regression analysis independently associated occlusal force with grip strength. In contrast, occlusal force of female infants significantly correlated with all the tested items. Stepwise multiple regression analysis also independently associated occlusal force with grip strength and TUG in females. [Conclusion] Grip strength indicating upper-limb muscle strength correlated with occlusal forces in both male and female children, whereas TUG, balance and walking ability indicating muscle strength of the lower limbs, correlated with items relevant to everyday functions in female infants. These findings show that different factors are involved in the occlusal forces of male and female children.