Dentistry

Abstract

Assessment of Oral Health Needs, Functional Ability, Barriers and Utilization of Oral Health Services among the Inmates of Old Age Homes of Hyderabad

Reddy PP, Anjum MS, Rao KY, Monica M, Akula S and Deepthi N

Background: The proportion of older people continues to grow worldwide, especially in developing countries. Approximately 600 million people are aged 60 years and over, and this number will double by 2025.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 323 inmates of old age homes who were above the age of 55 years in Hyderabad city. A structured 16 item questionnaire which assessed utilization and barriers of oral health care services and functional ability questionnaire was used to collect data in an interview method and dentition status was recorded using WHO 1997 proforma. The collected data were subjected to statistical analysis using SPSS version 21.0.
Results: Among 323 participants, 89 were males and 243 were females. About 86% experienced dental problems, among which 35% complained of dental pain and 22% of missing teeth. Of them, 78% did not receive any dental treatment and 66% felt there is a need for oral care at old age. Approximately 48% felt there is no access to treatment in the old age homes.
Conclusion: Limited access to oral care was one of the most commonly reported barriers to utilization of dental services. There is a need for oral health promotion and intervention at the old age home.