Gender differences in the association between oral health literacy and oral health-related quality of life in older adults

Bibliographic Details
Title: Gender differences in the association between oral health literacy and oral health-related quality of life in older adults
Authors: Chia-Jung Lee, Mu-Hsing Ho, Jee Young Joo, Jed Montayre, Yen-Kuang Lin, Chia-Chi Chang, Megan F. Liu
Source: BMC Oral Health, Vol 22, Iss 1, Pp 1-7 (2022)
Publisher Information: BMC, 2022.
Publication Year: 2022
Collection: LCC:Dentistry
Subject Terms: Gender, Older adults, Oral health, Oral health literacy, Quality of life, Dentistry, RK1-715
More Details: Abstract Background Poor oral health affects quality of life; oral health literacy studies are increasing as it plays an essential role in promoting oral health. However, little is known regarding the gender differences in oral health literacy and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) among older adults. This study aimed to explore the gender differences in oral health literacy and OHRQoL among community-dwelling older adults in Taiwan. Methods A cross-sectional study design with convenience sampling was undertaken to recruit participants at two community service centres. Data were collected using a structured survey consisted of the demographic characteristics, instrumental activities of daily living, nutrition assessment, oral health literacy and OHRQoL. The logistic regression was used to examine the gender differences in the relationship between oral health literacy and OHRQoL. Results A total of 202 participants completed the survey. Of which 56.4% (n = 114) were female. Logistic regression analyses showed that after controlling for age, instrumental activities of daily living, nutrition, education level, and average monthly income, better oral health literacy was associated with better oral health quality of life (p = 0.006) in men. Conclusions The relationship between oral health literacy and OHRQoL was only significant for men. No significant relationship between women’s oral health literacy and their OHRQoL. However, good OHRQoL is an integral part of overall health, but it is affected by differences in oral health and the accessibility of healthcare services. We suggest that gender-specific oral health literacy education should be offered through community health-education programs.
Document Type: article
File Description: electronic resource
Language: English
ISSN: 1472-6831
Relation: https://doaj.org/toc/1472-6831
DOI: 10.1186/s12903-022-02237-8
Access URL: https://doaj.org/article/2a48cd44ba4a47878a8828e150a336de
Accession Number: edsdoj.2a48cd44ba4a47878a8828e150a336de
Database: Directory of Open Access Journals
More Details
ISSN:14726831
DOI:10.1186/s12903-022-02237-8
Published in:BMC Oral Health
Language:English