Whether they’re cognitively impaired or physically disabled, some seniors may need assistance to ensure daily hygiene tasks are accomplished. These duties include oral care. Some seniors may need gentle reminders, while others may require hands-on assistance. Here are a number of ways to ensure your senior loved one maintains his or her oral health.
Routine Care
Dental professionals recommend aging adults brush their teeth at least twice each day. Seniors who have difficulty remembering things might need reminders each day and night to perform this task. If your loved one is unfamiliar with flossing, he or she might also appreciate an explanation and demonstration. Encourage your loved one to use disinfecting mouthwash following meals or sugary snacks.
Seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia may sometimes forget to complete their oral hygiene routines. Alzheimer’s can be challenging for seniors to manage without assistance, and it can be just as challenging for families who don’t have experience in providing Alzheimer’s care. Tucson Home Care Assistance provides Alzheimer’s care seniors and their families can depend on. Our proprietary Cognitive Therapeutics Method was designed to help seniors with Alzheimer’s and other memory-related conditions live happier and healthier lives.
Special Toothbrushes
Toothbrushes come in a variety of shapes, types, and bristle strengths. A brush that’s too soft may not adequately clean the teeth and gums. One that’s too stiff could damage delicate gum tissue. If your loved one has dentures, he or she will need to use toothbrushes specifically designed to clean them. These brushes often have shorter handles and larger bristle heads for effectively cleaning interior and exterior surfaces.
Nutritional Needs
Eating a balanced diet also keeps teeth and gums healthy. In addition to promoting overall health, a proper diet enables the immune system to function properly and fight off possible oral infections. Adequate amounts of calcium, vitamin D, and other nutrients keep teeth, bones, muscles, and connective tissues healthy while providing the fuel the immune system needs to perform repairs when necessary.
Dental Visits
Regular dental exams are the best way to identify and treat minor problems before they become serious issues. Older adults may sometimes skip dental visits because of transportation issues or scheduling conflicts. Create a calendar to keep track of your parent’s dental appointments, and make sure he or she has transportation to the dentist’s office.
During dental visits, dentists have the chance to assess seniors’ oral health. They can determine if dentures fit properly or cavities need attention. Dental practitioners also know whether seniors are using proper brushing techniques or perhaps need assistance based on the condition of their gums and teeth. Your parent’s dentist can also recommend products that might offer the most benefit for your loved one.
Practicing good oral hygiene is an important daily task some seniors can’t always accomplish on their own. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of elderly home care. Tucson Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
Protection Against Dry Mouth
Aging adults who take certain medications are prone to experiencing dry mouth. This condition is characterized by decreased saliva production, which can cause bacteria in the mouth to multiply and lead to cavities. Talk to your loved one’s dentist about possible causes and treatments for dry mouth. Encourage your loved one to stay hydrated, use moistening mouthwashes, and avoid substances that cause dry mouth, such as alcohol.
Some seniors may not be able to take proper care of their teeth and gums due to chronic health conditions. There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to address if their families opt for professional home care. You can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep your loved one safe and comfortable while aging in place. Home Care Assistance can be your trusted partner in caregiving for your aging loved one. Contact one of our experienced Care Managers today at (520) 276-6555 to learn more about our reliable in-home care services.