Factors Associated with Knowledge and Attitude Related to Oral Health Among Older People Living in the Community, Malaysia

Aims: Oral health is often neglected among older people because of the numerous comorbidities in this population. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the association between socio-demographics, knowledge, and attitude related to oral health among older people. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on ۳۵۹ older people aged ۶۰ years and above in the community setting in Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia. A questionnaire that was distributed through social media platforms was used for data collection. It consisted of four parts: socio-demographic, self-perceived oral status, knowledge, and attitude. The data were analysed by using Statistical Package Social Science (SPSS) Version ۲۶.۰. Findings: The mean total score for knowledge was moderately good, ۱۷.۴۲ (SD: ۵.۷۴), and the mean total score for attitude was positive, ۳۶.۲۰ (SD: ۶.۰۶). Educational level (P = ۰.۰۱) and frequency of dental visits (P = ۰.۰۲) were significantly associated with knowledge. There were significant associations between marital status (P = ۰.۰۱), educational level (P = ۰.۰۰), and frequency of dental visits (P = ۰.۰۱) with attitude. This study also found that there was a positive correlation between knowledge and attitude related to oral health among older people [r = ۰.۳۸, P = ۰.۰۰]. Conclusion: The knowledge of oral health was moderately good and the attitude toward oral health was positive among older people living in the community. Oral health promotion in the future should target those who were divorced or widowed with low educational levels and who have not visited dental clinics.

Keywords:

attitude , knowledge , oral health , older people