Improving Oral Health in Care Homes
Author Information
Author(s): Hendry Annie, Baker Sarah R., McKenna Gerry, Tsakos Georgios, Chestnutt Ivor, Smith Craig, Jones Vicki, O'Neill Ciaran, Jenkins Alison, Evans Rachel, Syed Saif Sayeed, Mirza Afshan, Harvey Michelle, Karki Anup, Moons Kirstie, Sandom Fiona, Donaldson Michael, Lappin Caroline, Shepherd Karen, Brocklehurst Paul R.
Primary Institution: Bangor Institute of Health and Medical Research, Bangor University
Hypothesis
Can role substitution improve oral health for older adults in care homes?
Conclusion
Role substitution could potentially meet the oral health needs of care home residents, but understanding contextual factors is crucial for effective implementation.
Supporting Evidence
- Oral health among care home residents is poorer than in the community.
- 40% of older adults in the UK have dental caries, with 73% in care homes.
- Using dental therapists and nurses could meet the oral health needs of care home residents.
Takeaway
This study looked at how using dental therapists and nurses instead of dentists could help older people in care homes take better care of their teeth.
Methodology
Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 key stakeholders in care settings, focusing on contextual factors influencing intervention delivery.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the purposive sampling of participants and the focus on specific stakeholder perspectives.
Limitations
The study did not include the views of all categories of care home staff or residents and their families.
Participant Demographics
Key stakeholders included care home managers, dental professionals, and academics with experience in care homes.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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