Objective: This study aimed to assess the association between systemic diseases, smoking habits, and medication use with oral hygiene status among elderly residents in nursing homes in Yogyakarta. Material and Method: An observational analytic study with a cross-sectional design was conducted among 170 elderly individuals (≥60 years) residing in nursing homes in Yogyakarta. Oral hygiene status was evaluated using the Oral Hygiene Index (OHI) and the Tongue Coating Index (TCI). Data on systemic diseases, smoking habits, and medication use were collected through structured interviews. Associations between these factors and oral hygiene outcomes were analyzed using the Chi-square test, with a significance level of p<0.05. Results: Systemic diseases were significantly associated with higher OHI (p = 0.021) and TCI (p = 0.018). Smoking was also significantly associated with higher OHI (p = 0.028) and TCI (p = 0.025). Additionally, medication use was significantly associated with poorer oral hygiene, reflected in higher OHI (p = 0.014) and TCI (p = 0.012). No significant associations were observed between demographic factors and OHls. Conclusion: Systemic diseases, smoking habits, and medication use are significantly associated with poor oral hygiene among elderly nursing home residents in Yogyakarta. Although this cross-sectional study provides contextually relevant data, generalizability may be limited because of purposive sampling. Comprehensive preventive strategies addressing medical conditions, lifestyle factors, and tailored oral health interventions are essential for this vulnerable population.
Setiawan et al. (Fri,) studied this question.