Exploring Oral Health Needs: A Qualitative Study of Older Adults in the Philippines

In the Philippines, older adults continue to experience high rates of oral health problems, even with ongoing government and professional efforts. This study seeks to provide additional evidence in support of Senate Resolution 1021, which proposes amending the Universal Health Care Law to include dental health service and the provision of dentures in the PhilHealth benefit packages. And it also aims to explore oral health experiences and priorities with high oral health inequality.

Participants were selected using purposive sample from the different regions of the Philippines. Qualitative methodology in the form of informal group discussion was used. The study population comprised seven groups of 5-6 respondents aged 60 years and over, selected according to the quota criteria of sex, social class and oral health status. Thematic analysis of the results highlights four themes: (i) older adults expressed concerns about the cosmetic appearance of their teeth, (ii) effective communication with dental professionals, (iii) consistent care, and a (iv) positive treatment experience. These concerns were shaped by past dental experiences, which were negative, and perceived barriers to care, including accessibility, cost, physical limitations, and oral health services in institutional settings. Finally, the study featuring the importance of tailoring oral health messages to specific audiences to ensure effective dissemination.

There are shortfalls in the provision of oral healthcare to older adults in the Philippines. The participants felt that current Philhealth benefit packages of dental services is not meeting their needs.