Improving oral health of elderly residing in nursing homes by increasing dental screenings and education: A pilot study.

Patel, Radhika (2015) Improving oral health of elderly residing in nursing homes by increasing dental screenings and education: A pilot study. Master Essay, University of Pittsburgh.

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Abstract

The United States Census Bureau estimates that the current structure of population is going to dramatically change in the next fifty years. It is expected that the population over the age of 65 is going to nearly double from 2015 to 2050, anticipating approximately 84 million individuals in this age range. This drastic increase in this population demands more attention to the needs of this age group and addressing problems that commonly afflict them. Ailments related to oral health such as periodontal disease and caries affect more individuals in American than any other health problem. Oral health, especially in the elderly population, is considered to be of public health significance because the significant increase in the aging population and that these health problems can cause pain, discomfort, infection, and can even result in systemic conditions such as pneumonia. In agreement, Healthy People 2020 reported oral health as a Leading Health Indicator because of its impact on not only the mouth and teeth, but also on the entire body. In general people are keeping their natural teeth for longer than before so there is an increase in care necessary to prolong longevity of these teeth. The care provided for these individuals must be tailored to their specific needs, considering possible dental prosthesis, limited manual dexterity, and personal beliefs on the importance of oral hygiene. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate the effectiveness of a training program for certified nurse assistants in improving the overall oral health and quality of life for elderly nursing home residents. Progress and success of this program will be determined by subjective quality of life surveys completed by the nursing home residents, along with documentation of staff engagement.

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Details

Item Type:	Other Thesis, Dissertation, or Long Paper (Master Essay)
Status:	Unpublished
Creators/Authors:	Creators Email Pitt Username ORCID Patel, Radhika
Contributors:	Contribution Contributors Name Email Pitt Username ORCID Committee Chair Finegold, David dnf@pitt.edu DNF UNSPECIFIED Committee Member Rubin, Richard rrubin@pitt.edu RRUBIN UNSPECIFIED
Date:	April 2015
Date Type:	Publication
Access Restriction:	No restriction; Release the ETD for access worldwide immediately.
Publisher:	University of Pittsburgh
Institution:	University of Pittsburgh
Schools and Programs:	School of Public Health > Multidisciplinary MPH
Degree:	MPH - Master of Public Health
Thesis Type:	Master Essay
Refereed:	Yes
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Oral, Health, Elderly, Dental, Care, facilities
Date Deposited:	03 Nov 2015 18:07
Last Modified:	20 Apr 2023 11:56
URI:	http://d-scholarship.pitt.edu/id/eprint/24827

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