Factors associated with oral health-related quality of life among older adults in Singto Thong Sub-district, Bang Nam Priao District, Chachoengsao Province

Abstract

This descriptive cross-sectional study aimed to examine the oral health status, oral health care behaviors, and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL), as well as to identify factors associated with OHRQoL among older adults in Singto Thong Sub-district, Bang Nam Priao District, Chachoengsao Province. The study was conducted in August 2023 with a sample of 149 participants selected through accidental sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire consisting of demographic characteristics, oral health care behaviors, and oral health-related quality of life (OHIP-14), along with clinical oral health examinations. Data analysis employed descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient.              

The findings revealed that the mean number of decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT) was 18.3 per person, and 48.8% of participants experienced moderate levels of tooth loss. Most older adults reported non-smoking and non-alcohol drinking behaviors. Healthy dietary behaviors, which were not at risk for oral diseases, were found in 61.8% of participants. Oral hygiene practices were moderate (58.6%), whereas dental service utilization behaviors were poor (77.2%). The overall OHRQoL was good among 88.6% of participants. No significant associations were observed between demographic characteristics, oral health care behaviors, or oral health status with OHRQoL. However, dietary behaviors that posed risks for oral diseases were significantly associated with OHRQoL (rs = .176, p = .032).