Barriers to quality oral health care among elderly (Geriatric) patients in Oyo State

The treatment needs of elderly people can be complex because of reduced mobility, compromised physical and mental states amongst others. These complexities can be pronounced in those with systemic diseases and those on medications that compound oral conditions e.g. Xerostomia. This makes oral hygiene and treatment more difficult. Despite their increased need, the uptake of dental care by elderly people is characteristically poor and unmet needs may be high6. Barriers to the uptake of care include a lack of perceived need, concerns about availability, cost and fear of cost, fear of treatment and anxiety about Dentist characteristics.

This cross-sectional study sampled 500 elderly patients, aged 65 to 91, attending clinics in selected healthcare centers in Oyo State, Nigeria. A multistage sampling technique was used, and data was gathered through structured interviewer-administered questionnaires and a modified WHO clinical assessment form to assess oral health status. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 23, with summary statistics like frequency tables and means. Chi-square tests were employed to examine associations between variables, with significance set at P < 0.05.Data collection was conducted daily, with verification and supervision to ensure accuracy. Occasional re-examination of random patients was done to maintain consistency among examiners.

The results showed a mean age of 74 ± 10 years, with 51% female participants. A mean DMFT score of 5 and a CPITN score of 2 indicated significant dental care needs. However, only 8.6% of the elderly participants had accessed dental care in the past 12 months. Financial constraints, fear of pain, and anxiety about dental instruments were some of the major factors preventing the elderly from seeking care.

The study concluded that despite available public-sector dental services, financial and personal barriers contributed to unmet oral health needs among the elderly.