Improving Dental Access and Oral Health of Older Adults Living in Residential Care: A Qualitative Research

Introduction- Improvements in oral health and oral healthcare have resulted in people usually retaining at least some natural teeth for life. Increased numbers of older patients require complex dental treatment as their dentition is already heavily restored. Treatment needs are often complicated further by acute and chronic medical conditions that become more common with increasing age. Objectives- To explore the access to daily oral care and access to dentistry for those living in a residential care home. Methods- For this research, a residential care home and a dental practice within the local area to the care home was approached. A total of 45 participants were interviewed. Statistical Analysis- Semi-structured interviews with three separate cohorts were performed, the patients or their friends and families, care home staff, and the dental teams. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results- The three cohorts of patients had similar concerns in accessing the dentists including transport, communication, training, and the need for raised awareness of the importance of oral health. The access to daily oral care was impacted upon by apathy and lack of education or training. Conclusion- Better training is required for care home staff and older people living in care on the importance of oral health. The provision of dental services for this community could be delivered differently with a focus on preventing and maintaining independence as long as possible.