Oral Health Care Status and Barriers to Accessing Oral Health Care Services in Geriatric Population

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the oral health status and identify major barriers to accessing dental care among the geriatric population.

Methodology: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Institute of Health Management and Research Sciences from November 2024 to May 2025, on elderly individuals aged 60 and above attending the dental OPD of LUMHS. Overall 150 elderly individuals aged >60 years, both genders, who were able to respond the study questionnaires were included. After taking demographic information, oral health status and barriers to accessing dental care were evaluated. SPSS version 26 was used for data analysis.

Results: Average age of individuals was 63.9+3.99 years. Males were in majority 56.0%. Oral health was note fair or poor, with half not using any dental prosthetics. Financial barriers (58.7%) and fear of dental visits (56%) were the main barriers. Only 41.3% visited dentists regularly, and preventive services were underutilized (8%). Cost and lack of awareness were key reasons for avoiding dental care. Despite 49.3% considered oral health very important and 82.7% were satisfied with available services.

Conclusion: Most of the elderly individuals observed with poor oral health, with limited access due to financial, social, and awareness-related barriers despite high satisfaction among those receiving care.