Knowledge and attitudes of dentists regarding ageing and the elderly.

OBJECTIVE

This study was aimed to identify the knowledge and attitudes of dentists regarding ageing and the elderly.

BACKGROUND

As the population ages, there is a greater demand for differentiated care from health professionals. However, the treatment needs of the elderly population are not sufficiently addressed, particularly in developing countries.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An official list of all dentists registered in the city of Belo Horizonte, Brazil, was obtained from the Regional Dentistry Council. A questionnaire was delivered to 276 randomly selected dentists; the survey contained questions designed to characterise the sample and identify dentists' conduct towards elderly patients. A Likert scale was used to identify knowledge regarding care for the elderly and attitudes towards ageing.

RESULTS

Women demonstrated more positive attitudes towards the elderly. Graduates who worked in the public sector demonstrated a greater knowledge of geriatric dentistry (p < 0.05). Attending specific continuing education courses had no influence over the dentists' willingness to treat the elderly population. Significant associations were not found between attitudes and knowledge regarding the elderly.

CONCLUSION

Dentists who worked in the public sector demonstrated a greater knowledge regarding the elderly. This knowledge did not influence attitudes towards ageing. Women demonstrated a more positive attitude regarding ageing and dental care.