Preventive oral health intervention among old home care clients

• DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afx020
• Publication Date: 2017-01-30T08:24:13Z
• Authors: Annamari Nihtilä; Eveliina Tuuliainen; Kaija Komulainen; Kirsi Autonen-Hon...; Irma Nykänen; Sirpa Hartikainen; Riitta Ahonen; Miia Tiihonen; Anna Liisa Suominen
• Keywords: Aged, 80 and over; Male; Aging; Dental Plaque Index; Age Factors; Dental Plaque; Mouthwashes; Oral Health; Nurses, Community Health; Oral Hygiene; Home Care Services; 3. Good health; 03 medical and health sciences; Cognition; 0302 clinical medicine; Caregivers; Humans; Female; Denture Cleansers; Geriatric Assessment; Dentures; Finland; Aged

poor oral health is common among older people dependent on supportive care and it affects their quality of life. Cognitive impairment functional dependency may increase the risk compromised daily hygiene. to investigate effectiveness a tailored preventive intervention home clients aged 75 years or over. group comprised 151 patients (84.4 ± 5.6 years) control 118 (84.7 5.2 years). An interview clinical examination were carried out before denture The participants in both groups re-interviewed re-examined after 6 months. significantly reduced number plaque covered teeth improved In addition, ability cognitive function associated with better had positive effect hygiene, however remained high, even intervention. Multiple approaches based individual needs are required improve vulnerable adults, including integrating dental into plan by nurses.