ACAP, PI Rehab unite for seniors’ oral health
PRESQUE ISLE — A grant from the American Dental Association Foundation (ADA), has made it possible for Aroostook County Action Program (ACAP) Oral Health to partner with Presque Isle Rehab and Nursing Center to create an oral health education training module for the CNAs who are the residents’ first line caregivers.
Contributed photo
PROPER CARE — Anne Chapman, left, Aroostook County Action Program oral health educator, teaches Taylor Sheldon, CNA, about proper oral health care for nursing home residents. 
ACAP oral health educator, Anne Chapman, is working closely with Robin Stetson, RN, DON, to train currently employed nurses and CNAs on best practices in oral health care for seniors.
“Our goal is to improve oral health for the residents,” explained Chapman. “It is important to highlight the critical need for proper oral health care for all ages, including our beloved seniors.”
Poor oral health in seniors has been linked to complications with pneumonia, heart disease and diabetes, as well as malnutrition and agitation due to oral pain/discomfort. Many people are not aware of the vital role oral hygiene plays in the health of the body and mouth.
“Our loved ones’ mouths provide us with a window into their health,” shared Chapman. “We observe for dry mouth, puffy bleeding gums, bad breath, sores, bumps, or ulcers on the tongue, lips, or gums.
“We check dentures for proper fit and cracks or rough spots. Dentures should be out of the mouth at least four hours a day in order to allow gums and palate air and moisture. Poorly fitting dentures can cause pain/discomfort which can lead to not using them. This can cause poor nutrition because of inability to chew nutritious foods.”
Chapman and Stetson have created a training module for the staff. Three training sessions have already taken place. In addition, hands on oral hygiene with the CNAs will be done three mornings a month for the next three months. These sessions will also include speaking with and offering education to the residents. All of this provides an opportunity to take a good look in the residents’ mouths.
It’s recommended that seniors see a dental professional every three to six months for cleaning and evaluation. At PIRNC, residents can receive these fee-based services on site by a dental hygienist who visits the facility every three months. The fee depends on dental insurance and services rendered.
