The impact of oral health on the quality of life in elderly patients

Abstract

Poor oral hygiene and diseases of the teeth and oral tissues can affect all aspects of patients' lives. The aim of the study was to determine the subjective assessment of oral and general health and their impact on the quality of life in elderly patients. The research included 46 patients, geriatric center users, who were asked questions from a three-part questionnaire. The first part of the questionnaire referred to the basic sociodemografic data. The second part of the questionnaire was the modified Oral Impacts of Daily Performance (OIDP), followed by an assessment of general and oral health by the patient. Likert's five-step scale (1 - 5) determined the frequency and intensity of the difficulties encountered, as well as the subjective assessment of the state of health. Based on the modified OIDP questionnaire, we found that all patients had some difficulties due to oral complaints. Even 86.96% of patients, due to with the existence of oral symptoms, experienced eating disorders, difficulties in enjoying food, laughing and showing teeth without any discomfort, as well as enjoying socializing with other people. Patients with partial edentulism had higher OIDP scores than edentulous patients. OIDP scores did not depend on sex, marital status, or on the educational structure of patients. Respondents with serious difficulties had a statistically significantly higher need for dental interventions. Improvement of oral health and frequent dental examinations could improve the functions of the orofacial system, the appearance and self-confidence of patients, which would have a positive impact on their social life.