Oral health knowledge, beliefs and practices among community‐dwelling older adults in Shanghai, China: A cross‐sectional analysis

• DOI: 10.1111/ger.12460
• Publication Date: 2020-01-30T05:45:16Z
• Authors: Sheng Ye; Liqun Chen
• Keywords: Cross-sectional study

Abstract Objective To assess oral health knowledge, beliefs and practices among community‐dwelling older adults in Shanghai, China. Background China is ageing faster than other developing countries. Four National Oral Health Surveys have been carried out between 1983 2015, focused on clinical examinations. Materials methods A cross‐sectional study was conducted 983 participants aged 60‐93 years old, drawn from two community service centres of Pudong New Area Shanghai. Data were collected using a Chinese language questionnaire based the Knowledge, Attitudes (beliefs) Practices (KAP) model. The scale ranges knowledge 0‐19, 0‐17 0‐55, where higher score indicated more accurate perception. Multivariate analysis explored related factors IBM SPSS Statistics version 22.0. Results Mean (SD) scores this 13.0 (3.6), (3.2) 31.2 (11.2). Geographic location, age group, employment status, education monthly household income showed significant statistical association with these ( P < .001). Only three sociodemographic variables (education, group status) remained after further multiple regression Conclusions level China, not high. Younger working individuals good practices. Community‐based strategies are needed to increase particular daily cleaning, improve regular dental visits.