Care aide abilities in oral care delivery and seniors' oral health outcomes.

Abstract

Background: Residents living in long-term care facilities have an increased risk of developing oral diseases and exacerbating existing systemic conditions. Major factors in oral health outcomes include a lack of access to dental care, varying levels of dependency, and comorbidities. While oral health can be maintained through the delivery of daily oral care, it is often insufficient.

Objective: This literature review examines the effectiveness of theoretical education versus clinical skills training in improving oral care delivery abilities of care aides and seniors' oral health outcomes.

Results: Adjunctive strategies to include theoretical education and clinical skill refinement have the highest potential to enhance long-term outcomes.

Discussion: A major factor in the efficacy of oral care delivery are the attitudes of care aides. With the integration of oral health assessment tools into care practices, care staff may learn to recognize oral diseases and determine the oral health needs of residents. Furthermore, oral health professionals should recognize the responsibility they have in supporting care staff throughout geriatric care.