Publication:

Oral health related quality of life among elderly population in a rural field practice area of a government medical college in western Maharashtra

Background Oral health is a vital component of general well-being, particularly among the elderly. This study aimed to assess oral health-related quality of life (OHRQOL) and its socio-demographic determinants in a rural elderly population.

Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 230 elderly residents aged 60 years and above in a rural field practice area of western Maharashtra. Data were collected using the geriatric oral health assessment index (GOHAI) and analyzed using SPSS version 20.

Results The mean GOHAI score was 50.04±8.34. Poor OHRQOL (score <57) was observed in 75.2% of participants. Tobacco use emerged as a significant determinant of poor OHRQOL in the present study, with 82.9% of tobacco users reporting poor quality of life compared to 64.6% of non-users. Gender, age, education, occupation and co-morbidities showed no statistically significant associations. Although the relationship between income levels and OHRQOL in this study was not statistically significant, international literature has reported strong associations between socioeconomic status and oral health among older adults.

Conclusions The study revealed a high prevalence of poor oral health-related quality of life (OHRQOL) among the elderly, with tobacco consumption being a key contributing factor. Community-based oral health interventions targeting modifiable risk factors are essential.