Home care helps aging seniors maintain good oral hygiene which also promotes good general health.
Maintaining health becomes increasingly important as the years go by, necessitating the need for help and support from family, home care, and medical professionals. With this in mind, it should be noted that this includes general and dental health. Dental care is essential for seniors to have a healthy smile and preserve overall well-being. Neglecting oral hygiene can lead to serious health concerns, lowering the quality of life and making everyday activities, such as eating, more difficult.
With the help of home care providers and loved ones, seniors can gain an understanding of why dental care is essential so they can make a plan to stay on top of it.
Preventing Dental Diseases
One of the most important reasons for seniors to maintain good dental health is to avoid developing dental diseases. With age, teeth and gums become more susceptible to illnesses such as gum disease and tooth decay. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over two-thirds of persons over 65 have gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss if not treated.
Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing, can help to prevent the onset and progression of these issues. If needed, home care providers can help aging seniors maintain good oral health practices.
Relationship Between Oral Health and Systemic Diseases
Oral health has been increasingly related to overall health issues. Poor oral hygiene, particularly among seniors, has been linked to the development of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.
Gum disease, in particular, has been linked to increased inflammation throughout the body, which can worsen cardiovascular issues. Additionally, dangerous bacteria from the mouth can enter the circulatory system and cause illnesses in other areas of the body.
It’s also important to note that seniors with diabetes require special attention when it comes to dental health. Gum disease can make it difficult to control blood sugar levels, and poorly managed diabetes might raise the risk of oral infections. This cyclical relationship makes it more important than ever for seniors to get regular oral care.
In this situation, home care professionals can assist with reminding seniors to make and keep dental appointments, as well as help them make good diet choices that help manage their diabetes.
Effects on Nutrition and Digestion
Good oral health is also essential to helping seniors maintain healthy nutrition. Seniors who have missing teeth, untreated cavities, or ill-fitting dentures may struggle to chew their food properly. This may cause them to avoid nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, which are more difficult to chew, in favor of softer, processed foods that may lack much-needed nutrients.
Additionally, a poor diet can affect the immune system, reduce recovery speed, and increase the risk of chronic diseases.
Improving Quality of Life
Beyond physical health, dental care is critical to a senior’s quality of life. Pain, embarrassment, or shame caused by missing or rotting teeth can severely impact confidence, leading to social isolation or reduced involvement in activities they used to enjoy.
Dental disorders can also cause speech difficulties, limiting effective communication and contributing to feelings of isolation. Seniors who maintain good oral health can continue actively participating in their social lives, communicate effectively, and feel better about themselves.
Dental health should never be overlooked, especially among seniors. Regular dental appointments and support from home care providers and loved ones can help prevent dental issues, lower the risk of systemic health issues, promote nutrition, and improve quality of life.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Care in McComb, MS, please contact the At Home Care staff Today! (800) 218-3509
At Home Care is a Top Provider of Senior Home Care in Port Gibson, MS, and throughout the State of MS. Our service areas include Hattiesburg, Brookhaven, Gulfport, Natchez, Gloster, McComb, Meridian, Laurel, Indianola, Tunica, Jackson and surrounding areas.