Association Between Physical Function and Edentulism in Older Adults: Findings from the Indonesian Family Life Survey 2014

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the association between physical function and edentulism among older adults. The fifth wave of Indonesian Family Life Survey (IFLS-5) data was used. Physical function was evaluated through physical performance, physical capability, and appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM). Edentulous was found in 10.96% of 2554 older adults. Low physical performance (OR 2.02, 95% CI 1.32-3.09; P =.001) was shown to be associated with edentulism in the 60 to 69 age group. In the 70 to 79 age group, both low physical performance (OR 1.62, 95% CI 1.04-2.53; P =.033) and 1 dependency in ADL/IADL (OR 1.75, 95% CI 1.02-2.98; P =.04) were significantly associated with edentulism. Two or more dependencies in ADL/IADL (OR 4.02, 95% CI 1.15-13.99; P =.029) demonstrated significant association with edentulism in older adults ≥80 years. These findings highlighted the importance of maintaining natural teeth and improving oral health during the aging process.