Oral Health-Related Quality of Life (OHQoL) and Related Factors among Elderly Women

Shin, Dong Soo; Jung, Young Mi

Abstract

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to identify factors associated with oral health-related quality of life among elderly women living in the community. METHOD: The participants were 162 elderly women aged 65 and older who lived in D city. Descriptive statistics, ANOVA, Pearson correlation coefficients and stepwise multiple regression were used with SPSS/PC windows program to analyze the data.
RESULTS
The major findings of this study are as follows: 1) there were statistical differences in OHQoL for spouse presence, educational level, monthly income, self-rated health, number of teeth and chronic disease, and types of denture. 2) OHQoL was positively related to age, number of chronic disease and nutrition. Also, OHQoL was negatively related to educational level, monthly income, number of teeth, and diet habit. 3) Significant factors influencing OHQoL were self-rated health and nutritional status.
CONCLUSION
Based on these results, it is necessary to do further study on oral health of those who have 20 or more teeth. Oral health promotion programs focusing on prevention are necessary for elderly women in the high risk group.