Overcoming barriers for oral health care in nursing homes/rehab care centers

As stated in Healthy People 2010, the mouth reflects general health and well-being. Caring for patients requires flexibility due to various disabilities or diseases. Population in the United States over the next several decades will increase dramatically. In the 1900's, 4% of individuals were over 65, 13% by 2000, and shortly it will be approximately 20% of the nation. Our median age by 2030 will be 42 years of age. Population growth will be in two cohorts-- middle-aged and elderly categories. This is the direction one needs to be educating our future dental professionals. Young professionals tend to have numerous psychological problems dealing with older individuals and nursing homes/rehab facilities. Discussion of barriers and resolutions will be identified for working in a nursing home/rehab center. A second work force issue for concern was building patient communication skills for developing confidence in the dental team and nursing staff. Various techniques are identified to build patient confidence. Due to limited personnel, equipment, and facilities at most nursing homes, staff will need to become very creative in treating patients. A listing of recommended procedures and treatments will be reviewed for various types of patients in a center. As stated the mouth reflects our general health and well-being. Caring for patients requires flexibility due to the various disabilities or diseases. Assessing the individual's behavior, the medical condition, and physical environment are necessary to determine the patient care plan.