Moghaddam F, Sargeran K, Gholami M, Jamali J, Shamshiri A. Social cognitive predictors of regular dental visits and mouth self-examination behaviors among the elderly population: An application of the health action process approach model.
PLoS One 2023;
18:e0293843. [PMID:
37943824 PMCID:
PMC10635496 DOI:
10.1371/journal.pone.0293843]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
The present study aimed to identify the social cognitive predictors of regular dental visits and mouth self-examination behaviors among the elderly population, based on the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA) model.
BACKGROUND
Regular dental visits and mouth self-examination can prevent oral and dental problems among the elders. Little information is available regarding the social cognitive predictive factors of these two behaviors.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
A cross-sectional study was conducted in 24 municipality centers in Tehran, Iran in 2021. The centers were selected randomly using a multi-stage cluster sampling method and 301 elderly attendants aged 60≥years participated in the study. Data collection was done using a researcher-made questionnaire including demographic characteristics and the HAPA model constructs for two target behaviors. Data were analyzed using the Smart-PLS version 3.3.9 via correlation and PLS-SEM analysis.
RESULTS
The mean age of the participants was 65.3±5.33 years and 79.7% were female. The SEM analysis showed that Action Self-Efficacy [b (SD) = 0.595 (0.065), P< 0.001] and Risk Perception [b (SD) = 0.218 (0.070), P< 0.002] were predictors of Intention for mouth self-examination but only Action Self-Efficacy [b (SD) = 0.651 (0.043), P< 0.001] was predictor of Intention for regular dental visits. Recovery Self-Efficacy and Planning directly contributed to the prediction of Mouth Self-Examination. The relationship between Maintenance Self-Efficacy and both behaviors is mediated by Planning. Also, the mediating role of Planning between Intention and target behaviors was confirmed.
CONCLUSION
Action self-efficacy predicted the intention for regular dental visits and mouth self-examination behaviors. The relationship between intention and both behaviors was mediated by Planning. Emphasis on improving Action Self-Efficacy and Intention formation will enhance the effectiveness of interventions aiming at promoting the oral health of the elderly population.
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