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Oral Health Assessment by Lay Personnel for Older Adults
Published on: February 2, 2020
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Factors Influencing Oral Health Literacy in Older People: A Life-Course Perspective
Ana Beatriz Silva Lopes1,2, Renato José De Marchi3, Valentina Fajreldin4,5
1Faculty of Dentistry, Student of the PhD in Dental Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile.
Gerodontology
|March 14, 2026
Summary
Oral health literacy in older adults is shaped by life experiences and societal factors. Improving it requires better policies, communication, and community support for equitable oral health.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Public Health
- Health Literacy
Background:
- Oral health literacy (OHL) is crucial for older adults' self-care and decision-making.
- Limited research exists on OHL in community-dwelling older adults in Chile.
- This study investigates factors influencing OHL in this population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the multifaceted factors shaping oral health literacy.
- To understand the life-course influences on OHL in Chilean older adults.
- To identify determinants of oral health literacy in community-dwelling older adults.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative exploratory study using Grounded Theory.
- Purposive sampling of older adults (≥65 years) from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds in Santiago, Chile.
- Analysis of 13 in-depth interviews, field observations, and document reviews using constant comparison and iterative coding.
Main Results:
- OHL is influenced by upstream factors (contextual, provider, system) and downstream factors (individual, behavioral).
- These factors impact access to and engagement with dental care.
- Life-course experiences across structural, social, and individual domains shape OHL.
Conclusions:
- Integrated public policies and professional training are essential for improving OHL.
- Community-based strategies addressing social determinants are needed.
- Promoting equitable oral health in older age requires a comprehensive approach.
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