Oral Heath for an Ageing Population

Epidemiological studies show that older persons are particularly affected by poor oral health. This impacts their chewing function and nutrition, as well as their ability to interact socially. This project aims to ensure that people not only live longer lives but healthier and happier ones too.

A dedicated supplement on this area of practice was published in the International Dental Journal (IDJ) in August 2022, with contributions from nineteen authors across seven countries. The articles are entitled:

1. Oral Health for Healthy Ageing: A People-centred and Function-focused Approach

2. Burden of Oral Diseases and Access to Oral Care in an Ageing Society

3. Decline in Oral Function and its Management

4. Prevention of Oral Functional Decline

5. Policies Supporting Oral Health in Ageing Populations are Needed Worldwide

6. Providing Effective Dental Care for an Ageing Population

The IDJ articles, along with the outcomes of a workshop held in October and a survey in December, will form the basis of resources and practical recommendations moving forward.