Do Age and Gender Factors Influence the Form of Parental Social Support for the Dental Health of Children with Down Syndrome in Surabaya?

Abstract

Down syndrome often results in cognitive and motor impairments, leading to poor oral hygiene and increased susceptibility to periodontal disease. Parental support, particularly in maintaining dental health, plays a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of children with Down syndrome. This study examines the influence of parental age and gender on the social support provided for dental care, highlighting the variations in involvement based on these factor. This study utilized an analytical cross-sectional design conducted in 14 special schools (SLB) in Surabaya. A total of 100 randomly sampled parents of children with Down syndrome participated by completing a questionnaire on parental social support for dental health. The data, including demographic information and five aspects of social support, were analyzed using a chi-square test to assess the relationship between parental age, gender, and social support. The results showed that parents aged 41-50 years provided moderate (47.1%) to high (66.7%) levels of social support for their children’s dental health. Parents aged 51-60 years mainly provided moderate support (28.6%), and a significant relationship was found between parental age and social support (p=0.037). Female parents were predominant in offering moderate (82.9%) to high support (85.7%), but gender did not significantly influence the level of social support (p=0.120). In conclusion, Parental age has a significant impact on the social support provided for the dental health of children with Down syndrome, while gender does not have a significant effect, though mothers tend to offer more moderate levels of support In Surabaya city.