Elders assessment of an evolving model of oral health

Abstract

The original model required additional components and graphic representation to accommodate all of the experiences and beliefs relating to the oral health of the elders who participated in this qualitative study.

The impact of oral health on body image and social interactions among elders in long‐term care

“…23 This methodology proposes that the meaning attributed by people to their experiences is influenced strongly by history and culture, and that knowledge about how people feel and interpret their experiences is best constructed through an interactive relationship between researchers and the people of interest. 3,13,20,22,25 In particular, by considering frailty and institutionalisation from the perspective of the residents, we aimed to construct new knowledge upon existing knowledge of how oral health and personal appearance influence social interactions in LTC facilities. We also used the literature of ageing, social interactions, oral health and body image to construct interview guides and to help analyse the interviews.…”

“…[14][15][16][17] However, with the exception of tooth loss, 18 little focus has been given to how the body image of older adults is influenced by less than ideal conditions of the mouth. 20,22 This broadly biopsychosocial perspective on oral health offers potential for explaining how personal and social values influence body image and relationships in LTC facilities. It would be helpful also to know how the social environment, in LTC facilities for example, influences the experiences of oral impairment, and conversely how oral impairments, such as halitosis or tooth loss, disturbs the social life of frail people.…”

Oral health-related quality of life and loneliness among older adults

“…Good oral health is important for social interaction (Donnelly and MacEntee 2012; Tsakos et al 2013) and general well-being (Hugo et al 2009). Oral health is a dynamic phenomenon influenced by many factors that change over time, and can generate positive, as well as negative emotions (Brondani et al 2007). Older adults are often vulnerable, and may require help in maintaining their independence and preserving their confidence in oral health functioning, including daily life activities such as eating, talking and smiling (Chalmers 2003).…”

Muted dental voices on interprofessional healthcare teams

“…2). 11,13,14 Oral healthcare for elders who are frail is frequently neglected. 12 Explanations for this neglect suggest that interest in oral health wanes with advancing age, and that a healthy mouth and teeth are relatively unimportant compared to other more threatening disorders.…”