Relationship between Gerotranscendence and Oral Health-Related Quality of Life among Elderly Population in Tertiary Care Hospital, Wardha, Maharashtra: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Gerotranscendence represents a shift in metaperspective, transitioning from a materialistic and rational outlook to a more cosmic and transcendent one. This phase fosters resilience in older individuals, enabling them to overcome the challenges and despondency associated with ageing, thereby promoting a positive embrace of the ageing process. Remarkably, individuals with high levels of gerotranscendence, even in the presence of poor oral health, demonstrate the capacity to cope and adapt to their circumstances. This adaptive capability may contribute to an enhancement in their self-reported Oral Health-Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL). Aim: To evaluate the relationship between gerotranscendence and OHRQoL among the elderly population in the Vidarbha region. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted over a 6-month period from March 2023 to August 2023 in collaboration with the Department of Prosthodontics and the Department of Public Health Dentistry at the Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, Maharashtra on 350 participants. The study included volunteers aged ≥70 years, residing in homes or old age homes, and those visiting tertiary healthcare centers. Methodologically, data collection employed a self-made organised proforma. Oral examinations were conducted using Type III inspections with a mouth mirror. Gerotranscendence was assessed using the Gerotranscendence Scale Type 2 (GST2), which was validated and translated into Marathi. The Geriatric OHRQoL was evaluated using the Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI), also translated into Marathi. The study used Chi-square tests for categorical variables and Pearson’s and Spearman’s tests for correlation analyses. Results: The average gerotranscendence score was 23.45 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 22.96, 23.94), reflecting a mid-level of gerotranscendence, indicating that the gerotranscendence score was neither low nor high. According to Pearson’s and Spearman’s correlation tests, the gerotranscendence score was significantly positively correlated with age and self-perceived need for treatment. The mean GOHAI score was 40.16 (95% CI: 39.55, 40.76). A substantial positive association between the GOHAI and self-perceived need for treatment was found using Pearson’s and Spearman’s correlation tests. When comparing gerotranscendence and GOHAI, Pearson and Spearman correlation tests revealed a significant positive association (p<0.001). Conclusion: Gerotranscendence was significantly positively correlated with OHRQoL, independent of objective oral status. Despite having poor oral health, elderly individuals with high levels of gerotranscendence may be better able to handle and adapt to their circumstances, which could result in an improvement in self-reported OHRQoL.