Survey on the demand for an information and communication technology-based oral functional rehabilitation exercise system for older adults
10.11149/jkaoh.2024.48.3.142
- Author:
Yong-Keum CHOI
1
;
Ji-Hye YUN
;
Eun-Gyeong CHA
;
Hyun LEE
;
Hyang-Ah PARK
Author Information
1. Department of Dental Hygiene, College of Health Science and Genome-based BioIT Convergence Institute, Sun Moon University, Asan, Korea
- Publication Type:Original Article
- From:Journal of Korean Academy of Oral Health
2024;48(3):142-150
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Objectives:With the rapid aging of the Korean population, interest in oral health is increasing among older adults. However, information and communication technology (ICT)-based programs for oral function rehabilitation exercises (OFRE), that are closely related to the systemic and cognitive health of older adults, are limited. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the applicability of ICT-based OFRE programs by identifying the demand from elder-care facility workers, who are the main providers, and to establish a basic plan for system development.
Methods:This study was conducted using a Google Form questionnaire for approximately one month in September 2022 for workers at a day-and-night care center in Korea. Frequency analysis and chi-square tests were performed to identify the oral-health perceptions of center workers, and logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the need for ICT-based OFRE programs.
Results:First, in patients undergoing oral function-related activities at the center, the need for OFRE was high, especially for mastication exercises (P<0.05). Second, participants with experience in using ICT-based rehabilitation programs were more positive about the usefulness of the new programs (P<0.001). Third, ease of use and simplicity of the program content were highly desirable, and group delivery was preferred.
Conclusions:This study confirmed the usefulness of ICT-based OFRE programs in facilities for older adults. The study findings are expected to be a basis for further development.
