Title: Effects of Oral Care with Tongue Cleaning on Coughing Ability in Geriatric Care Facilities: A Randomized Controlled Trial Running head: Oral care with tongue cleaning; coughing

Background: Methods for preventing aspiration pneumonia are needed soon in order to reduce mortality from aspiration pneumonia and promote the health of the elderly. Objective: The aim of this randomized controlled trial was to examine whether oral care with tongue cleaning improves coughing ability in elderly individuals living in geriatric care facilities.