Intervention Plan for Improving Oral Health among the Elderly residing in the Community and in a Nursing Home

Objectives: To assess the influence of an oral health promotion program on oral health outcomes among
independent elderly.
Methods: A prospective study was performed among 71 elderly in a geriatric day center, and nursing
home. At baseline, both groups received an oral hygiene presentation. Individual interview and dental
examinations were performed. Each of the participants received oral hygiene instructions accompanied
by written oral hygiene guidelines. After six months, the same questionnaire and oral examination were
performed.
Results: At baseline, 78% demonstrated good oral hygiene, 65% had high levels of bacterial biofilm,
and 43% demonstrated severe chronic periodontitis. After six months, 86% demonstrated good oral
hygiene (p<0.001), 46% had high levels of bacterial biofilm (p<0.001), and 20% demonstrated severe
chronic periodontitis, (p=0.003). No statistical differences were revealed between the geriatric day
center and nursing home groups.
Conclusions: The current program emphasized the importance of a simple and low cost oral health promotion
program aimed at self-supported elderly.