ORAL HEALTH DISPARITIES AMONG OLDER ADULTS: RACE/ETHNICITY, LIFESTYLE, AND STRUCTURAL ACCESS TO CARE. (11th November 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kelley, J; Han, C; Iqbal, A; Yu, J
• Is Part Of: Innovation in aging. Volume 2(2018)Supplement 1
• Page Start: 648
• Page End: 648
• Publication Date: 2018-11-11
• Subjects: Aging -- Periodicals; Gerontology -- Periodicals; 612.67
• DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igy023.2418
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2399-5300

Abstract

Abstract: Poor oral health is associated with lower quality of life in older adulthood. Although everyone experiences age-related declines in oral health, those with social and economic disadvantages experience more rapid decline and at younger ages. Yet gerontologists have given little systematic attention to documenting these disparities. Using data from the NHANES III (1988–1994) for White, Black, and Mexican-origin adults ages 50 to 70 (N= 2, 320/ 1, 243/1, 171), we examine predictors of three indicators of oral health: no natural teeth; fair/poor self-rated oral health; irregular dentist visits. Multivariate logistic regression models indicate that White older adults have a higher likelihood of no natural teeth but Black and Mexican American older adults have greater rates of fair/poor oral health and irregular dentist visits. Those with less education and income have worse oral health. Those who ever smoked, or currently consume high levels of sugar drinks are more likely to have fair/poor oral health. Foreign-born Mexican Americans are least likely to have regular dentist visits. Black men who served in the military are significantly more likely to have regular dental visits and more natural teeth, but not White or Mexican Americans. Our findings demonstrate substantial social and economic influences on oral health among older adults and important disparities between race and ethnic groups in the United States. Premature decline in oral health is yet another consequence of a lifetime of low socioeconomic status and limited access to health care.