September 2010

Volume 27, Issue 3

The voice of the elderly in accepting alternative perspectives on oral health

Authors: M. Brondani
doi: 10.1922/CDH_2468Brondani06

Abstract

Background: As we age, the dynamic balance between gains and losses has been acknowledged by current portrayals of health. Oral health research has yet to fully incorporate such dynamism in understanding the impact of oral disorders on the life of elders. Objective: to explore the existence of alternative views on oral health through values, beliefs and behaviors of older adults. Methods: Focus group discussions occurred among 42 men and women between the ages of 64 and 93 years old. Participants were from community and seniors centres and retirement homes. Each discussion lasted for about 90 minutes and was tape-recorded for verbatim transcription. Data were analyzed systematically and comparatively using a thematic approach to explore the depth of opinions and understandings of oral health and disability. Results and Conclusions: Participants shared the acceptance of some oral impairment and disability as an alternative view of a ‘healthy’ mouth as they balanced gains and losses, adjusted expectations, and sought social support. Participants discussed that an edentulous mouth might not always be disruptive to daily functioning for all. As a result, a full set of new dentures may not always be the ultimate goal. Key words: Aging, behaviors, beliefs,focus group, older adults, oral health, perceptions, stress and coping, values

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Editorial - The challenges of designing and evaluating complex interventions 130-132 Download
Plaque, caries level and oral hygiene habits in young patients receiving orthodontic treatment 133-138 Download
The voice of the elderly in accepting alternative perspectives on oral health 139-144 Download
Social determinants of dental health services utilisation of Greek adults 145-150 Download
Oral health and treatment needs of institutionalized chronic psychiatric patients in Istanbul, Turkey. 151-157 Download
Barriers to oral health care amongst different social classes in India. 158-162 Download
Social differences in tooth decay occurrence in a sample of children aged 3 to 5 in North-East Italy 163-166 Download
Child oral health concerns amongst parents and primary care givers in a Sure Start Local Programme 167-171 Download
A 6-year longitudinal study of caries in teenagers and the effect of “dropouts” on the findings 172-177 Download
The dentist workforce in Kuwait to the year 2020. 178-183 Download
The distribution of individual tooth impaction in general dental patients of Northern India 184-186 Download
Short Communication - Wheelchair-accessible dental offices in Nagasaki, Japan 187-190 Download

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