Sociodemographics of homebound people in Kentucky

Abstract

In this report, selected results are presented from the 1987 Kentucky Oral Health Survey, which acquired statewide data on the oral health status and practices of the noninstitutionalized population of Kentucky. In the 1987 epidemiological survey, information about persons who were homebound was also gathered through telephone and in-person interviews. The results of that survey provided a relatively accurate estimate of the number of persons homebound in the state of Kentucky. Although the majority of this population was older than age 60, almost 21% were between the ages of 35 and 59. Household income for persons who are homebound and the amount of money spent on dental care is significantly less than in households not reporting the presence of a person who is homebound. These findings provide baseline data for dentists and health planners interested in serving this population. Also, this data is pertinent to the formation of health policies to create accessible, affordable care for this growing segment of the population.