## 4 Discussion  
This study examined the demographic characteristics and distribution of common systemic health conditions of a group of adults aged 55 years and older living in rural areas of the Australian state of Victoria. The findings of this study are consistent with previous research on oral health conditions in rural areas of Victoria [26]. Furthermore, the study aligns with existing evidence that non-communicable diseases are the primary contributors to morbidity and mortality rates in Australia [27]. The study reveals that a majority reported having multiple medical conditions that may affect their oral health. Heart-related diseases, high blood pressure, arthritis, high lipids, visual impairments, hearing loss, chronic pain, diabetes, and depression were found to be highly prevalent in this sample of older adults. The assessment also included conditions that may impact oral healthcare and oral hygiene, including visual impairments (even with the use of corrective eyewear), hearing impairments, and manual dexterity challenges as measured by arm and hand disabilities. Furthermore, the findings also report the presence of other disabilities among the participants, as these may affect access to healthcare services. For example, some reported having a disability in their feet and legs. Also, a significant proportion of the participants reported not having all of their natural teeth. Although the absence of natural teeth, or edentulism, is not universally classified as a disability in all contexts [27], it can significantly impact an individual's quality of life, leading to functional impairments that may be recognized as disabling in certain circumstances [28]. For example, functional or psychological impairments [29]. Additionally, the role of certain foods in promoting health, enhancing well-being, and reducing the risk of diseases has led to the use of terms such as functional or therapeutic foods [30]. Tooth loss can alter dietary intake and therefore contribute to an increased risk of chronic disease development and decreased well-being [30]  
The majority of participants were taking medications, with an average of 4.3 medications per person. Among them, a large proportion reported taking medications that could cause xerostomia (i.e., dry mouth). For example, 54.4% of the participants reported a positive history of high blood pressure and another 49.3% reported arthritis, which raises concerns for oral healthcare as high blood pressure and arthritis (e.g., Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) medication is associated with salivary hypofunction and can contribute to dry mouth [23; 31; 32]. Depression was another health condition observed: the use of antidepressants can reduce salivary flow and cause dry mouth. Depressed individuals also tend to have lower rates of salivary flow even without medication and untreated depression can lead to neglected oral hygiene and gum disease. Additionally, several over-the-counter medications, such as expectorants and decongestants, can also reduce saliva flow [23]. Interestingly, in the present study, those with no natural teeth (i.e., edentulous) reported more health conditions and higher medication consumption than those who kept some natural teeth. The prevalence and amount of alcohol consumption and smoking and average number of drinks per week and cigarettes smoked per day were relatively high among (XRoadsII)participants, although not different from the national averages for these age groups [24; 25]. Still, the present results reinforce the need for targeted interventions to address these risk factors and promote healthier behaviors. Additionally, there is a need for comprehensive oral cancer-related education and screening training for oral health professionals to enhance the prevention and early detection of oral cancer [33]. It is also essential to increase the level of confidence among oral health professionals in discussing behavioral issues that may impact oral health, such as smoking and alcohol consumption, with their patients.