The impact of oral health on the oral health-related quality of life in the adult visually impaired population of Malta : a pilot study

Abstract

Objectives: The objective of this research was to assess if having a moderate to severe visual impairment influences the oral health-related quality of life and quality of life. Method: A sample of 32 adults with a visual impairment from the Ophthalmic Department of Mater Dei Hospital and SPERO were recruited for this pilot study. Recruited participants were seen at the Teaching Clinic of the University of Malta, Mater Dei Hospital and SPERO training and activity centre for the visually impaired and blind located in Qormi, Malta. Data were collected from questionnaires OHIP-14, GOHAI, medical history and demographics were recorded. Results: This study included 17 (53.1%) female and 15 (46.9%) males. There was a significant correlation between TOTAL GOHAI score and the number of medical conditions (r= -0.36; p=0.047). Another correlation was detected between the PAIN GOHAI score and the number of functional units (r= -0.42; p=0.018). Mean DMFT value was recorded at 19.4 ± 7.4 in the participants. Conclusion: Alternative hypothesis was rejected as OHIP-14 and GOHAI results concluded good quality of life. Recommendations for further research in the visually impaired population, education and practice were proposed in this study.