Depressive Symptoms and Self-Reported Oral Health in Brazilian Older Adults: A Population-Based Study

Investigate whether depressive symptoms are linked to a higher likelihood of reporting poorer oral health conditions in older adults.

Understanding the potential negative effects of depressive symptoms on the perception of oral health in older adults is crucial for implementing tailored interventions and improving overall well-being in this demographic.

This is a cross-sectional study using data from the 2019 Brazilian National Health Survey (PNS), conducted between 2019 and 2020. A total of 22,728 Brazilian older adults were analysed. A Poisson regression model was employed to examine the relationship between depressive symptoms and self-reported oral health. The selection of independent variables for statistical modelling was guided by a conceptual framework of social determinants. All analyses were performed using Stata 14.0.

The unadjusted findings suggest that individuals with 9 or more depressive symptoms had a 68% higher prevalence (PR: 1.68 [95% CI: 1.67-1.69]) of reporting poor self-perceived oral health compared to those with fewer depressive symptoms. After adjusting for confounding factors, it was observed that individuals with 9 or more depressive symptoms had an 11% higher prevalence (PR: 1.11 [95% CI: 1.08-1.13]) compared to individuals with fewer depressive symptoms.

Even after adjusting for factors, those with nine or more depressive symptoms were more likely to report poor oral health. This highlights the role of mental health in older adults' oral health, emphasising integrated approaches for overall well-being and addressing emotional and physical aspects.