1Red Cross College of Nursing, Chung-Ang University 2Graduate School, Chung-Ang University
Abstract
Purpose: This study was done to apply Andersen's behavioral model to identify factors that determine oral health-related quality of life in elderly persons. Methods: Participants were 257 people ages 65 years or older. Data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean and hierarchical multiple regression. Results: The variables in the behavioral model, predisposing factors, enabling factors and need factors, explained 31% (F=12.7, p<.001) of variance in oral health-related quality of life. The predisposing factors, enabling factors, need factors and health behavior collectively explained 35% (F=9.22, p<.001) of variance in oral health-related quality of life. Factors influencing oral health-related quality of life in older adults were ADL and IADL, self-reported oral health status, xerostomia and dental care in last 12 months. Conclusions: The analysis results showed that the need factor had the highest level of relative importance of the three factors. The model used for this study can be used to predict oral health-related quality of life.