How Oral Health Deterioration in Aging Adults Highlights the Need for Integrated Care

With the global population rapidly aging, the connection between oral health and overall well-being has come into sharper focus. By 2030, one in six people will be 60 years or older, creating a growing demand for healthcare solutions that address both medical and dental needs. Dental hygienists play a crucial role in shaping how this aging population can maintain not just their dentition but their overall health as well.

A recent review published in BDJ Open explores the impact of aging on oral health and calls for a more integrated healthcare approach. The study underscores the urgent need for policies that prioritize oral health as a vital component of healthy aging, particularly as we face the global rise in life expectancy.

The aging process brings many changes, not just in mobility and physical health but also in oral health. Oral diseases are ranked as the 22nd leading cause of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) globally, affecting millions of older adults. Among the most common issues are root caries, periodontal diseases, and tooth loss. These problems are not simply part of the aging process but are often exacerbated by comorbidities like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and side effects from medications.

The World Health Organization highlights that healthy aging requires maintaining functional abilities, which are closely tied to both physical health and social factors. Oral health is a critical aspect of this, as dental diseases can have ripple effects on overall well-being. For example, poor oral hygiene has been linked to pneumonia in frail older adults, while periodontal diseases can worsen the management of diabetes.

Dental hygienists are uniquely positioned to address these challenges. By emphasizing preventive care, they can help mitigate the decline in oral health that so many older adults experience. Beyond clinical work, dental hygienists can advocate for more comprehensive policies that integrate oral health with general healthcare services. This approach is crucial as many older adults, particularly those in institutional care, struggle to access regular dental services.

One particularly promising avenue for improving care is through the expansion of training for care home staff. Care home residents often face higher rates of untreated dental conditions. Equipping staff with the knowledge and skills to assist with basic oral care can significantly impact on the health outcomes of this vulnerable group.

The global rise in aging populations is set to continue, with projections indicating that by 2050, the number of people aged 60 and over will double. This demographic shift underscores the need for healthcare professionals, including dental hygienists, to prioritize oral health in older adults. Through a combined effort, we can ensure that the global aging population experiences healthier, more fulfilling lives, with oral health as a key component. Click here to read more.