A study of the impact of dental hygienist concern on oral health care of the elderly
10.11149/jkaoh.2019.43.4.217
- Author:
Jung Won YUN
1
;
Yu Hee LEE
;
Kyeung Ae JANG
;
Jung Hwa LEE
Author Information
1. Department of Dental Hygiene, Dong-Eui University, Busan, Korea. yamako93@deu.ac.kr
- Publication Type:Original Article
- Keywords:
Concern;
Dental hygienist;
Elderly;
Oral care
- MeSH:
Aged;
Aging;
Dental Hygienists;
Education;
Humans;
Oral Health
- From:Journal of Korean Academy of Oral Health
2019;43(4):217-223
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
OBJECTIVES: There is currently little research on dental hygienists' interest and need related to oral care. To perform elderly oral care effectively, dental hygienists must understand the features of aging in the elderly. The purpose of this study is to investigate how dental hygienists' interest affects oral care for the elderly.METHODS: 232 dental hygienists completed a self-reported questionnaire from March to April 2019. The questionnaires consisted of general characteristics of the subjects (6 items), elderly patient experience (11 items), and questions regarding aging (7 items). This study analyzed collected data by frequency analysis, ANOVA, Pearson correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis.RESULTS: Correlation analysis between concern, need, and participation in elderly oral care showed a significant amount of correlation among all variables. We found that gender (P=0.022), education level (P=0.029), workplace type (P=0.002), and the proportion of future elderly patients were statistically significant (P=0.001) factors affecting the level of concern.CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study suggest that experience in treating and caring for the elderly are essential factors for raising the interest and understanding of oral health care for elderly patients. Therefore, we should consider the development of various programs to raise interest in oral health for the elderly.
