Factors Associated with Self‐reported Oral Health Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults in a Rural Province of Thailand

Abstract

Background Limited research has focused on self-reported oral health in older Thai individuals. Objective We explored the factors associated with self-reported oral health among older adults residing in rural Thailand. Methods This cross-sectional study included males and females aged ≥ 60 years living in Phon Thong district, Roi Et province, a rural area in northeast Thailand. This community-based study was conducted between May 2021 and December 2021. A trained interviewer administered a face-to-face interview questionnaire. Study data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s chi-squared test, and binary logistic regression. Results In total, 249 older individuals completed the interviews. Most study participants were aged ≥ 67 years (55.8%), with a mean age of 66.92 years. Pearson’s chi-squared test showed statistically significant associations between self-reported oral health and age (P = 0.035) and chewing ability (P = 0.005). The multivariate binary logistic regression analysis revealed significant associations between self-reported poor oral health and older age (AOR = 0.290, 95% CI: 0.091–0.925) and chewing discomfort (AOR = 4.032, 95% CI:1.119–14.56). We observed no significant associations between self-reported oral health and sex, toothbrushing frequency, and speaking ability. Conclusion Younger respondents with chewing discomfort were more likely to self-report poor oral health. In rural areas, nonprofessional health providers can use a single-item self-reported oral health question as a simple tool for evaluating oral health status in the elderly. Moreover, dental health education programs are needed to help older individuals improve their oral self-care, access dental services, and achieve appropriate oral function. Such programs are essential for promoting good oral health in this population, particularly among “younger” elders.

Association of Glycated Hemoglobin Level with Self-Reported Chewing Problems in Elderly Community-Dwelling Individuals in Japan

“…In another country, a recent study confirmed self-reported chewing status to correlate with oral health condition in the elderly population. 17 While evaluation and detection of chewing problems by an oral health care provider is considered to be the best approach in individualized practice, it requires significant human and equipment resources to examine large populations, such that surveillance using a questionnaire has advantages in terms of time and costs in universal screening. Accumulating information about the population with chewing problems identified by this system is important for enhancing collaboration between the medical and dental fields and providing appropriate guidance for people participating in the health checkup program.…”

Oral Health Assessment Tools for Elderly Adults: A Scoping Review

“… 15 Healthcare professionals, nursing facilities, and community providers concerned about the oral health of older adults should encourage the development of strategies to maximize oral health and prevent complications. 16 …”

“…15 Healthcare professionals, nursing facilities, and community providers concerned about the oral health of older adults should encourage the development of strategies to maximize oral health and prevent complications. 16 Currently, the more widely used scales for the assessment of oral health in elderly adults include the Brief Oral Health Status Examination (BOHSE), the Oral Health Assessment Tool (OHAT), and the Oral Assessment Sheet (OAS). Rodrigues et al conducted a systematic review with the aim of ascertaining the progression and assessing the measuring features of oral health assessment tools used by non-dental practitioners for elderly individuals residing in facilities that provide longterm care.…”