Oral health status and related quality of life among elderly tribes in India

INTRODUCTION: Oral health reflects overall well-being for the elderly population. In elderly people, oral health contributes significantly towards quality of life (QOL). Good health is essential for older people to remain independent and to play a part in family and community life. Epidemiological data on health and its related issues are very important in order to plan for future health care provision. OBJECTIVES: To assess the oral health status,treatment needs and oral health related quality of life using GOHAI indexin elderly patients in Kalpetta. METHODOLOGY: A cross sectional study was conducted in the elderly patients reporting to the OPD of Amritakripa Hospital, Kalpetta. Oral Health status was assessed by structured proforma and WHO oral health assessment form 2013 which included DMFT score, Periodontal status, Oral Mucosal lesions, Treatment needs etc. Oral health related quality of life was assessed by Geriatric oral health assessment index. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 20 and descriptive status were obtained. RESULTS: The sample consisted of 214 females and 66 males.70.7% of of participants were illiterate. 96.4% of the population(270)were having daily wage <500. 59.3% of population were unaware about oral health problems. Emergency treatment was need in 41.4% of population. On assessing oral health related quality of life, Male population found to have GOHAI score of 26.44 and that for the female population, it was 19.72.GOHAI score was compared for prosthetic status and age also. Considering the psychological parameters, suggest that this group of elderly in Kerala does not regard poor oral health as barriers to social interactions. CONCLUSION: The oral disease burden is very high in tribes. The prevalence of the tobacco habits is of concern. Education and motivation of these laity is needed to improve their oral health.