The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #65444

Sandra D. Saunders, RDH, MS, MPH, Dental Hygiene Program, The SENIOR Project, University of Rhode Island, 8 Washburn Hall, Kingston, RI 02881-2001, 401-874-4095, s.saunders@uri.edu

The concept of “successful aging” embraces a multidimensional perspective including physical, psychological, and social aspects of aging. In addition to presenting a research basis for the concept of successful aging, this paper will focus on the oral health aspects of positive aging. It will summarize the full meaning of oral health and its importance to the older adult, provide a brief summary of the relationship between oral health, general health and well-being, and present the most important oral health, dietary and physical activity strategies for promoting a positive aging experience having minimum chronic disease and medication use.

Learning Objectives:

• At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to:
• 1. Summarize the full meaning of oral health and its importance to the older adult
• 2. Provide a brief summary of the relationship between oral health, general health and well-being, and
• 3. Describe the most important oral health, dietary and physical activity strategies for promoting positive aging

Keywords: Aging, Oral Health

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.