Health behaviours and quality of life in independently living South Australians aged 75+ years

Abstract

Objective

This study evaluated the associations between oral and general health behaviours, self-reported health and quality of life of 75+ year old adults living independently in South Australia

Methods

A cross-sectional study based on a self-report mailed questionnaire was conducted in 590 independently living adults aged 75+ years. Self-ratings of oral health and general health were assessed using single-item global ratings. Quality of life was measured using the Oral Health Impact Profile and the EuroQol instrument for health utility

Results

Overall response rate was 78%. The current analyses were restricted to 354 dentate older adults. Increasing age and being female were negatively associated with EuroQol scores. Good self-rated oral and general health were more prevalent in participants with higher social status who also had lower oral health impact and higher EuroQol scores. Good self-rated oral and general health were less prevalent while oral health impact was greater in participants who ate few fruits, vegetables or dairy products

Conclusions

Self-rated health and quality of life were poor in older adults with inadequate fruit/vegetables/dairy intake and lower social status. These findings suggest that nutrition and socio-economic factors may be important to the oral and general health among adults aged 75+ years.

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