Don’t overlook oral health in older people’s care
Many people now struggle to access dental care and this can be challenging for people living with disabilities and those in long-term care settings. Good oral health is fundamental for older people’s physical health, dignity, overall well-being and even intimate relationships. However oral care is frequently overlooked and undervalued, nurses should ensure they follow best practices and set a high standard
For older people, poor oral care can lead to numerous health issues, nurses should ensure that best practices become the standard, not the exception
In recent years, NHS dentistry has faced intense scrutiny, with many struggling to access essential dental care. This challenge is particularly acute for people living with disabilities and those in long-term care settings. Why is this important? Because it reinforces the urgent need for proactive oral care – something that has always been critical but is now more vital than ever.
Many of us have experienced dental pain and understand its debilitating effects—poorly managed pain, inability to concentrate, mood disturbances, bad breath and sleep deprivation.
‘Unfortunately, oral care is often deprioritised in favour of more immediate health concerns’
Good oral health is fundamental not only for our physical health, but also for maintaining dignity, overall well-being and even intimate relationships. Yet, despite its importance, oral care is frequently overlooked and undervalued across all care settings, not just in long-term care.
Many resources have highlighted the need for improved oral care among older people
For older adults, poor oral care can lead to numerous health issues, including tooth decay, malnutrition, dehydration, aspiration pneumonia, infections, pain, distress, impaired communication and social withdrawal. Unfortunately, oral care is often deprioritised in favour of more immediate health concerns, which is unacceptable given its profound effect on overall health and quality of life.
Many resources have highlighted the need for improved oral care among older people
Several key documents in recent years have underscored the need for improved oral care among older people, providing guidelines and strategies for better oral health management. Notable resources include:
- Public Health England (2020) Oral Health Toolkit for Adults in Care Homes
- Health Education England (2019) Mouth Care Matters – A Guide for Hospital Healthcare Professionals Second edition
Despite these resources, poor oral care remains a widespread issue. We must ensure that best practices become the standard, not the exception, across all care settings. I encourage everyone to explore these resources and consider how you can drive positive change in your workplace.
Zena Aldridge, consultant editor Nursing Older People
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