Understanding the association between unmet dental care needs and household food security status among older people in Ghana

Abstract

The literature recognizes food insecurity as a barrier to access to health care services. However, we know very little about the association between food insecurity and unmet dental care needs among older people in Ghana. To address this void in the literature, this study uses a representative survey of adults aged 60 or older from three regions in Ghana to examine whether older people who experienced household food insecurity differently report unmet dental care needs in comparison to their counterparts without any food insecurity. We find that 40% of older adults reported unmet dental care needs. Results from logistic regression analysis show that older people who experienced severe household food insecurity were more likely to report unmet dental care needs, compared to those who did not experience any type of food insecurity, even after accounting for theoretically relevant variables (OR = 1.94, p < 0.05). Based on these findings, we discuss several implications for policymakers and directions for future research.

Impact of musculoskeletal disability limitations on the economic unmet dental needs in South Korea

“…Work loss and unemployment due to health problems can cause financial difficulties and social isolation. Patients experiencing economic hardship generally tend to forgo dental services [ 47 ], particularly vulnerable populations [ 48 ]. Dental treatments are mainly not or less covered by governments for health care, so the economic condition has a great impact on the availability of dental services.…”

“…Those living alone were slightly more likely to experience Economic UDN than those living with a partner or spouse. Married people generally showed higher rates of UDN than single or widowed people [ 47 , 58 ]. Having someone to live with increases awareness of health care and healthy behaviors, while people living alone tend to lack financial support and help for health care from family members [ 59 , 60 ].…”