One of the many issues seniors face as they age is concerns with dental health. Several issues contribute to these concerns, including the inability to attend appointments due to transportation needs. With personal care at home assistance, transportation shouldn’t be an issue. Seniors can continue getting the care they need and deserve with proper support in the home.
Changes in Oral Health
Discuss any changes that seniors have regarding their dental health. They may have noticed a difference in the taste or texture of their food. Due to medication or hydration issues, they may be dealing with a dry mouth. Seniors may also notice more pain when chewing food or a lack of mobility in their jaw. Other changes that may occur are listed below.
- Spots in the mouth that are uncomfortable and sore
- Thickening in any area of the mouth
- White or red patches in the mouth
- Any difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Feeling numb around the mouth or tongue
- Swelling of the jaw
- Pain in the ear that is not associated with hearing loss
All of these concerns should be discussed with medical professionals. Delayed communication may result in seniors eating less, leading to weight loss and a lack of necessary nutrients. Additionally, if changes to their diet need to be made to accommodate a diagnosis or medication, they may become overwhelmed with the thought of learning how to incorporate the changes on their own.
Adding personal care at home can assist with these issues as professionals can help meal plan and cook according to dietary restrictions. Seniors also benefit from learning new cooking methods at their own pace while assisting home care professionals with food prep.
Understanding the Care Needs for Dentures
For seniors who require dentures as they age, it’s essential to understand how to care for them and to ensure they have the right fit. Dentures can be tricky, and many seniors may decide they are more trouble than they can handle. Consult the dental team about reservations and concerns seniors may have. Understanding how to care for their dentures and the benefits they provide may decrease fears.
Regular care for dentures is just as crucial as for natural teeth because the germs that cause tooth decay can also adhere to dentures. Seniors must remember to clean their dentures daily with cleaners designed just for them. They should avoid using home cleaners or toothpaste for natural teeth since they are excessively abrasive and can harm dentures. To maintain a healthy mouth, removing dentures for at least four to six hours each day is important and most people choose to take them out overnight.
How Often Should Seniors See a Dentist?
This varies from person to person, but generally, it’s a good idea to see a dentist once a year. Many seniors may need supplemental dental insurance to be fully covered. Discuss concerns about coverage and how often seniors should visit with a dental professional before their original coverage expires, if possible. This allows time to plan accordingly.
One of the many ways having personal care at home helps is by ensuring that seniors are vigilant with their health needs, including maintaining their appointments and taking their medications. Home care adds additional support when seniors need it most.
If you or an aging loved one is considering Personal Care at Home in Fernandina Beach, FL, please contact the caring staff at Companion & Compassion today. 904-502-9052
Source 1 / Source 2 / Source 3
- Why is Post-hospital Care Important for Mental and Emotional Health? - April 12, 2023
- Personal Care at Home Supports Senior’s Oral Health - March 20, 2023
- What Can Patients Expect from Skilled Nursing Care at Home? - March 8, 2023
