Gerodontology[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Association of Social Support With Oral Health in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Pojmonpiti S, Syed SS, Srinivasan M … +3 more , Tsakos G, Müller F, Janssens B
Gerodontology · 2026 May · PMID 42136531 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Social support is an important determinant of health in later life, yet no study has synthesised the relevant evidence. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to synthesise evidence on the association...
BACKGROUND: Social support is an important determinant of health in later life, yet no study has synthesised the relevant evidence. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to synthesise evidence on the association between social support (functional, structural, and perceived dimensions) and oral health among older adults aged 75 years and over. METHODS: The review process, using a systematic approach and random-effects meta-analysis, was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Searches were carried out in Medline, Embase, and CENTRAL up to November 2025. Eligible studies examined associations between social support and oral health, including dentition status, oral conditions, oral function, oral health behaviours, and oral health-related quality of life. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. RESULTS: Forty studies were included. Meta-analyses showed that low functional support-defined as having fewer people to rely on-was associated with edentulism (OR 1.21, 95% CI: 1.15, 1.27) and non-regular dental service use (OR 1.20, 95% CI: 1.17, 1.23). Low structural support, in terms of living conditions, was associated with edentulism and lacking functional dentition (OR 1.34, 95% CI: 1.02, 1.75; and OR 1.41, 95% CI: 1.20, 1.67, respectively). The evidence on the associations between low social support and other oral health measures was sparse and heterogeneous. CONCLUSION: Poor social support was associated with poor dentition status and oral health behaviours among older adults aged 75 years and over. These findings underscore the importance of incorporating psychosocial factors into oral health assessment and care planning for this population. TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO; registration number: CRD420251231319.
Association of Socioeconomic Factors With Oral Health in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Syed SS, Pojmonpiti S, Janssens B … +3 more , Srinivasan M, Müller F, Tsakos G
Gerodontology · 2026 May · PMID 42136528 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Oral diseases remain disproportionately prevalent among older adults. However, evidence on oral health inequalities among older adults remains dispersed across studies that have used different socioeconomic i...
BACKGROUND: Oral diseases remain disproportionately prevalent among older adults. However, evidence on oral health inequalities among older adults remains dispersed across studies that have used different socioeconomic indicators and oral health measures and has not been synthesised. OBJECTIVE: To synthesise the evidence on the association between socioeconomic factors and oral health among older adults aged 75 years and older. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. The Medline, Embase, and CENTRAL databases were searched. Studies reporting socioeconomic factors (education, income, occupation, area-level deprivation, and multi-aspect socioeconomic position) and oral health (dentition status, dental caries, periodontal disease, dry mouth, oral function, oral health behaviours, and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL)) among older adults were included. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. RESULTS: Sixty-eight studies were included. Meta-analyses showed that socioeconomic disadvantage in older adults was associated with: (1) poor dentition status: fewer natural teeth, higher prevalence of edentulism, and lacking a functional dentition; (2) more teeth with decay; (3) irregular dental attendance; and (4) poorer OHRQoL. Similar patterns were generally observed for periodontal disease, dry mouth, and oral function, although no meta-analysis could be performed due to limited evidence and heterogeneous oral health measures. CONCLUSION: Socioeconomic disadvantage was consistently associated with poor oral health in older adults. Associations were more pronounced for dentition status, reflecting the cumulative socioeconomic disadvantage over the life course. Socioeconomic factors should be considered to inform prevention, clinical decision-making and oral healthcare planning for the ageing population. TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO Registration CRD420251231319.
Concurrent Validity of the Modified Oral Status Survey Tool.
Tayebi-Hillali H, Phadraig CMG, Olegário IC … +6 more , Moynihan J, Hunt L, Winning L, McCallion P, McCarron M, Byrne K
Gerodontology · 2026 May · PMID 42124556 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: The Modified Oral Status Survey Tool (MOSST) is a novel instrument designed to assess oral health and function in older adults for whom traditional dental indices are unsuitable. Originally developed for olde...
BACKGROUND: The Modified Oral Status Survey Tool (MOSST) is a novel instrument designed to assess oral health and function in older adults for whom traditional dental indices are unsuitable. Originally developed for older adults with intellectual disabilities (ID), its reliability and content validity are established, but its concurrent validity against clinical standards is unclear. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the concurrent validity of the MOSST by comparing its scores with established clinical indices for caries, gingival inflammation, and oral cleanliness in older adults with ID. METHODS: A validation study was conducted within Wave 6 of the Intellectual Disability Supplement to the Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (IDS-TILDA). Dentate older adults with ID (n = 45; age range [40-70 years]) were assessed by a calibrated dentist using MOSST, the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS), the Modified Gingival Index (MGI), and the Plaque Index (PI). Agreement between MOSST items and clinical indices was analysed using Cohen's kappa and Spearman's rank correlation coefficients. RESULTS: Data from 45 participants were analysed. The MOSST demonstrated perfect agreement with ICDAS-merged stage for extensive caries lesion (κ = 1.00), the MGI for gingival inflammation (κ = 1.00), and the PI for oral cleanliness (κ = 1.00). Spearman's correlations were also perfect (p = 1.00) across all domains with no significant difference between MOSST and indices identified. CONCLUSIONS: MOSST demonstrates excellent concurrent validity with gold-standard clinical measures. Its accurate identification of cavitated caries, gingival inflammation, and plaque accumulation supports its use as a practical, non-dental tool for oral health assessment and research in older adults where traditional dental methods are inappropriate.
Improving Oral Care in Stroke Patients: Patients' and Carers' Experiences of Oral Care in a Hospital Environment Following Acute Stroke.
Dickinson H, Lightbody CE, Crean S … +1 more , Watkins C
Gerodontology · 2026 May · PMID 42124538 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to explore the thoughts and feelings of stroke patients and their carers (family/guardians) about oral care during hospitalisation, and (in turn) inform future research and service development...
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to explore the thoughts and feelings of stroke patients and their carers (family/guardians) about oral care during hospitalisation, and (in turn) inform future research and service development. BACKGROUND: Stroke is a leading cause of adult disability and associated physical and cognitive impairments can compromise oral care and oral health-related quality of life. Despite its importance, oral care is under-researched in stroke services, with limited evidence to underpin clinical guidelines, particularly from the perspective of patients and carers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Qualitative research based on interpretive inquiry. A convenience sample of 10 patients requiring assistance with oral care and six carers of stroke patients who lacked capacity were recruited from two Stroke Units from two large teaching hospitals in the Northwest of England, UK. Semi-structured interviews explored participants' experiences of oral care during hospital admission. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using Framework analysis. RESULTS: Five main themes were identified: Attitudes to oral health; In-hospital oral care; Factors affecting in-hospital oral care; Impact on the patient; and Facilitators to oral care. Patient and carers explained that having the opportunity to address their oral care and oral comfort was important for their well-being. CONCLUSION: Oral care is an essential but often overlooked aspect of stroke recovery, with patients and carers valuing comfort and hygiene despite inconsistent provision. Embedding routine assessment, reliable resources, staff education and family involvement into stroke protocols could reduce complications and establish oral care as a standard, patient-centred practise.
Psychosocial Implications of Tooth Loss and Dental Rehabilitation in Vulnerable Edentulous Older Adults in Chile: A Qualitative Study.
Hausdorf KD, Castro MA, Canavati IB … +4 more , Lopes ABS, García V, Chandia C, Gamonal J
Gerodontology · 2026 May · PMID 42124533 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Complete tooth loss remains highly prevalent among older adults and disproportionately affects the most disadvantaged. Although the functional consequences of edentulism and subsequent rehabilitation are well...
BACKGROUND: Complete tooth loss remains highly prevalent among older adults and disproportionately affects the most disadvantaged. Although the functional consequences of edentulism and subsequent rehabilitation are well documented, its psychological and emotional implications, particularly in vulnerable older populations, are less explored. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to explore the psychological and emotional impact of tooth loss and complete denture rehabilitation among a sample of vulnerable edentulous older adults in Chile. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A qualitative narrative study with a hermeneutic orientation was conducted. In-depth semi-structured interviews were carried out with 10 completely edentulous adults aged 70-80 years who had received free comprehensive dental rehabilitation (conventional complete dentures or implant-retained mandibular overdentures) through a publicly funded program in a highly deprived urban area. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed inductively using thematic narrative analysis. RESULTS: Two overarching categories emerged: psychological suffering and impact of dental rehabilitation on psychological well-being. Psychological suffering was characterised by shame related to appearance, erosion of identity and self-esteem, fear of social judgement leading to social withdrawal, and the aggravating role of economic deprivation. Tooth loss generated profound emotional distress extending beyond functional impairment, often remaining hidden yet substantially affecting social participation and sense of self. In contrast, dental rehabilitation was perceived as transformative, restoring not only oral function but also confidence, dignity, social engagement and emotional well-being. CONCLUSIONS: Tooth loss is a significant source of psychological suffering in later life, particularly among socioeconomically vulnerable older adults, with adverse effects on social participation and well-being that may be mitigated through timely access to adequate dental rehabilitation.
Deploying Oral Health Therapists in Aged Residential Care in New Zealand: A Pilot Study.
Smith MB, Majeed S, Holden R … +5 more , Bartlett S, Kerse N, Bakri NN, Oda K, Thomson WM
Gerodontology · 2026 May · PMID 42077063 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: The proportion of older New Zealanders entering aged residential care facilities with at least some of their natural dentition remaining is steadily increasing, and high dental caries increments are evident i...
BACKGROUND: The proportion of older New Zealanders entering aged residential care facilities with at least some of their natural dentition remaining is steadily increasing, and high dental caries increments are evident in that setting, with important implications for quality of life. OBJECTIVE: To determine the effectiveness of a clinical intervention in aged residential care delivered by oral health therapists. METHODS: Two care homes were purposively selected, with 85 and 60 residents (respectively), from all care levels (rest home, hospital, dementia and psychogeriatric). Two clinical examinations (baseline and follow-up at 3 months) were undertaken by oral health therapists. In the intervention, residents-along with their family members and/or carer if appropriate-received personalised oral care advice, including (but not limited to) recommendations on tooth brushing, interdental cleaning, denture care and hygiene, and dietary advice, as needed. Outcomes assessed were plaque score, calculus score, gingival appearance, food debris score, tooth mobility and oral odour. RESULTS: In total, 78 residents participated. Just over one-quarter were edentulous; most of the remainder were partially dentate in both arches, with a minority having an edentulous maxilla opposing a partially dentate mandible. Approximately one in eight residents was subsequently lost to follow-up. Mean plaque score worsened, although the effect size was small. There was a moderate improvement in mean calculus score, along with small improvements in gingival appearance and mean food debris score, but there was no improvement in tooth mobility. The proportion with an unpleasant oral odour increased, from one in 14 to one in nine. CONCLUSION: Deploying oral health therapists in the care home setting to assist staff in caring for residents is possible, but obtaining meaningful improvement in clinical measures remains a challenge.
A Mediation Analysis of Oral Health, Anthropometric Characteristics and Frailty Among Community-Dwelling Mexican Older Adults.
Fernandez Villa JM, Bello-Chavolla OY, Garcia-Peña C … +1 more , Sanchez-Garcia S
Gerodontology · 2026 Apr · PMID 42057413 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Frailty has been associated with oral health, a broad and heterogeneous construct. Due to its complexity and multi-dimensional nature, clarifying the role of oral health in the development of frailty remain...
INTRODUCTION: Frailty has been associated with oral health, a broad and heterogeneous construct. Due to its complexity and multi-dimensional nature, clarifying the role of oral health in the development of frailty remains challenging; potential mediating factors are being examined to improve its comprehension. This study aims to examine the relationship between frailty and oral deficits, considering biological age as a potential mediator using samples of Mexicans aged over 60. METHODS: This study is a secondary analysis of the Cohort of Obesity, Sarcopenia and Frailty of Older Mexican Adults (COSFOMA), a cohort of Mexican older adults starting at age 60. We analysed pre-pandemic data from 2019, including questionnaires, anthropometric measures, oral health evaluations and physical performance tests. Frailty was assessed using a standard Frailty Index, constructed from health-related deficits. Oral health was evaluated with the New Oral Health Index and the Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI). Accelerated aging was estimated using AnthropoAge. Associations between frailty, oral health and biological aging were examined using generalised linear models (GLMs) with bootstrapped standard errors. RESULTS: The analytical sample comprised 1657 participants. We found that women had higher scores in BMI categories, use of prostheses, while men had higher scores of dental biofilm, gingivitis, caries and number of missing teeth. Values were higher among those with oral health deficits. A sex-stratified sub-analysis was performed; among men, no statistically significant average causal mediation effect (ACME) was found. However, among women, the direct effect of oral health deficits on frailty was not statistically significant, indicating associational evidence about mediation by accelerated aging. The proportion was 51.86%. DISCUSSION: Oral health deficits were associated with frailty, evidence consistent with an indirect pathway through accelerated aging. Among women, this indirect association was primarily observed in aging profiles characterised by disproportionate fat distribution and reduced lean mass. These findings highlight potential pathways linking oral health and frailty that warrant further investigation.
Effects of Regular Dual-Light Antibacterial Photodynamic Therapy on Oral Health in Assisted Living Residents-A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Romppanen W, Helenius-Hietala J, Pakarinen S … +5 more , Korte S, Saarela R, Heikkinen AM, Sorsa T, Pätilä T
Gerodontology · 2026 Apr · PMID 42046318 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of dual-light antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) on oral health among older people living in assisted living facilities (ALF), comparing it to co...
OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of dual-light antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) on oral health among older people living in assisted living facilities (ALF), comparing it to conventional oral self-care guidance. METHODS: In this parallel-group, two-arm randomized controlled pilot study, functional older adults living in assisted living facilities were randomized in a 1:1 allocation ratio to receive either conventional oral self-care guidance or guidance combined with regular dual-light aPDT home-care device. Clinical measurements, VPI (Visible Plaque Index) and CPITN (Community Periodontal Index of Treatment Needs), were conducted on-site using a mobile dental chair, and participants completed questionnaires on self-care habits, motivation, and oral dryness. Mouthrinse aMMP-8 levels were measured using a point-of-care assay. The follow-up period was 2 months. An intention-to-treat analysis was performed. RESULTS: The final analysis included data on twenty-eight consented participants aged 51 to 95, of whom 17 were female and 11 were male. A significant reduction in dental biofilm was observed in both groups based on VPI measurements. Participants in the treatment group showed a significant improvement in periodontal health according to CPITN (p = 0.0006), but that was not apparent in the control group. aMMP-8 mouthrinse positivity reduced in both groups. Objectively measured oral dryness improved in both groups. CONCLUSION: Dual-light aPDT may be an effective adjunct to conventional oral self-care in assisted living facilities.
Integrating Oral Health in General Health National Policy Frameworks for Older Adults: Scoping Review.
Dhanapriyanka M, Pritchard L, Zamora A … +6 more , Torwane N, Schuch HS, Ha DH, Perera I, Jayasekara P, Do L
Gerodontology · 2026 Apr · PMID 42037516 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: The global rise in population ageing challenges health systems, including oral health, which is integral to overall health and quality of life. Although the World Health Organization advocates integrated ca...
INTRODUCTION: The global rise in population ageing challenges health systems, including oral health, which is integral to overall health and quality of life. Although the World Health Organization advocates integrated care for older adults, evidence on national models integrating oral health into broader health strategies remains limited. AIM: This review aimed to synthesise evidence on approaches that integrate oral health into general health national policy frameworks, focusing on older adults. METHODS: A scoping review was conducted using electronic searches of government domains via Google and Google Advanced in English-speaking countries, supplemented by searches of the Analysis and Policy Observatory database. Inclusion criteria were based on Population: older adults; Context: national-level health policy frameworks; Concept: integration of oral health. RESULTS: Of the 2616 documents retrieved from 52 countries, 1964 were screened, and 28 documents with oral health incorporated were included. The focus areas of the included documents were palliative care, mental health, disease prevention, chronic diseases, nutrition, and healthy ageing. Across the 28 included documents, oral health was mentioned in the context of 24, with nine of these referring to it only in the policy context. Oral health appeared under an objective or strategy in five documents, as an activity in three, as an indicator in two, and as a recommendation in nine documents. Oral health stakeholder representation was limited. CONCLUSION: This review identified that the integration of oral health within broader national health policies targeting older adults remains largely superficial, underscoring the need for deeper and more meaningful integration and intersectoral collaboration.
Effect of Oral Muscle-Strengthening Training Using a Smartphone Application on Pronunciation in Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Lee KJ, Moon HY, Choi YY … +1 more , Lee KH
Gerodontology · 2026 Apr · PMID 42015842 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of smartphone application-based oral muscle-strengthening training on articulation in older adults. METHODS: Eligible participants who scored within the normal range on a speech screeni...
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of smartphone application-based oral muscle-strengthening training on articulation in older adults. METHODS: Eligible participants who scored within the normal range on a speech screening test underwent oral muscle-strengthening training using smartphone application-based content twice weekly for 6 weeks, whereas a control group was instructed to maintain their usual daily routines without receiving any specific intervention. To examine improvements in speech performance, the total percentage of correct consonants (PCC), proportion of whole-word correctness (PWC), phonological mean length of utterance, proportion of whole-word proximity and percentage of correct vowels were assessed. Phonological error patterns were also identified. RESULTS: A total of 47 older adults aged ≥ 65 years, including both men and women, were included. According to the repeated-measures ANOVA, the intervention group demonstrated significantly greater post-intervention improvements than the control group in PCC (from 97.9 at baseline to 99.0 post-intervention, p = 0.031) and PWC (from 0.9 to 1.0, p = 0.004). Although the absolute changes were numerically small, they were associated with moderate effect sizes, indicating clinically meaningful improvements in pronunciation accuracy. The mean number of vowel change errors significantly decreased (from 0.8 to 0.5, p = 0.042). CONCLUSION: Smartphone application-based oral muscle-strengthening training can positively affect pronunciation improvement in older adults. This suggests the potential of non-face-to-face, self-directed interventions to mitigate age-related declines in oral motor function and maintain communication abilities, thereby contributing to enhanced quality of life among older adults. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinical Research Information Service of the Korean Government: KCT0011121.
Translation and Validation of the Arabic Version of the Xerostomia Inventory.
Hakeem FF, Alturkistany HY, Baik AA … +3 more , Aldadjan RO, Alsahli RA, Almarwani AJ
Gerodontology · 2026 Apr · PMID 42015797 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Xerostomia is a common condition in older adults and is associated with adverse oral health outcomes. The Xerostomia Inventory (XI) is a widely used instrument for assessing perceived dry mouth, yet a validate...
OBJECTIVE: Xerostomia is a common condition in older adults and is associated with adverse oral health outcomes. The Xerostomia Inventory (XI) is a widely used instrument for assessing perceived dry mouth, yet a validated Arabic version of the full XI is lacking. This study aimed to translate and evaluate the psychometric properties of the Arabic version of the Xerostomia Inventory (XI-Ar) among older adults in Saudi Arabia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional psychometric validation study included 77 Arabic-speaking adults aged 60-86 years (58.4% female) from the College of Dentistry University Hospital at Taibah University, Saudi Arabia. The XI-Ar was developed using a structured cross-cultural adaptation process, and participants completed the instrument at baseline; a subset repeated it after 7 days. Psychometric evaluation included internal consistency, acceptability, construct validity, convergent validity, and test-retest reliability. RESULTS: The XI-Ar demonstrated good internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.86) and good test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.75). Floor and ceiling effects were minimal (1.3% each). The correlation between total XI-Ar scores and unstimulated whole salivary flow rate was weak. Item-level correlations with salivary flow were observed for SIPLIQ (ρ = -0.37) and DRYMOUTH (ρ = -0.24). Participants with poor self-rated oral health and those with depressive symptoms reported higher xerostomia scores than their counterparts, supporting discriminant validity. XI-Ar scores did not differ meaningfully by nutritional status or hyposalivation classification. CONCLUSION: The XI-Ar is a valid and reliable tool for assessing xerostomia among Arabic-speaking older adults, with psychometric performance comparable to validated versions.
Efficacy of Dental Varnishes and Gels for the Prevention and Management of Dental Caries in Older Adults-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Cleary T, Rostom EM, Enciso R … +1 more , Mulligan R
Gerodontology · 2026 Apr · PMID 41987364 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: To evaluate the efficacy of dental varnishes/gels in the prevention/management of dental caries in older adults. METHODS: Cochrane, PubMed, Web of Science and EMBASE were searched through March 2024 for ran...
INTRODUCTION: To evaluate the efficacy of dental varnishes/gels in the prevention/management of dental caries in older adults. METHODS: Cochrane, PubMed, Web of Science and EMBASE were searched through March 2024 for randomized controlled trials (RCT) including patients aged ≥ 60 years (or average age ≥ 60 years) utilizing varnish or gel interventions. Outcomes included caries incidence and lesion progression or reversal. RESULTS: Of 112 abstracts reviewed, 10 RCTs (unclear or high risk of bias) were included. One study showed 1% chlorhexidine (CHX)-1% thymol varnish applied 7 times over 12 months significantly reduced carious/filled surfaces versus placebo (p < 0.001) and improved active lesions (RR = 2.00, p = 0.018). Monthly 5% sodium fluoride (NaF) varnish with professional brushing significantly improved outcomes versus standard fluoride toothpaste and oral hygiene instructions [OHI] (RR = 1.63, p = 0.002). When professional cleaning and OHI were provided quarterly, adding varnishes (1% CHX-1% thymol or 5% NaF) showed no significant additional benefit. Evidence quality was low to moderate due to heterogeneity and bias. CONCLUSION: Quarterly professional cleaning with OHI was as efficacious as adding either the 1% CHX-1% thymol or 5% NaF varnishes. Applying dental varnishes in the office every 3 months could be a more practical option for the delivery of preventive modalities to older adults who could have cognitive or physical limitations that negatively impact the frequency of daily or weekly use at home of toothpaste or rinses. Future research should evaluate cost-effectiveness and adherence to preventive protocols across different patient functional and behavioural abilities and care settings. TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO ID: CRD42024585284.
The Effects of Stroke on Oral Function and Oral Health: A Qualitative Study.
Cheong E, Aldabe D, Thiyahuddin N … +2 more , Farella M, Loch C
Gerodontology · 2026 Apr · PMID 41979982 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Stroke is the leading cause of adult disability in Aotearoa New Zealand, often resulting in a range of physical and cognitive impairments. The impacts of stroke on oral function and oral health are not well...
INTRODUCTION: Stroke is the leading cause of adult disability in Aotearoa New Zealand, often resulting in a range of physical and cognitive impairments. The impacts of stroke on oral function and oral health are not well understood from the survivors' perspective, yet the latter are crucial for overall wellbeing. This qualitative study explored the perceived impact of stroke on oral function (biting, chewing, and swallowing) and oral health through the narratives of stroke survivors. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine Aotearoa New Zealand-based stroke survivors who experienced an ischaemic or haemorrhagic stroke more than 6 months prior to the interviews. The interviews aimed to explore participants' experiences with oral function and oral health and access to oral care during stroke rehabilitation. Transcripts were analysed using inductive content analysis to identify key categories. RESULTS: Four main categories emerged: (1) challenges in oral care and oral function; (2) the need to improve health services support in post-stroke oral care; (3) barriers to accessing post-stroke oral care; (4) post-stroke oral adaptations and lifestyle changes. Participants experienced a range of challenges in oral function and oral health following stroke. Swallowing difficulties, weakened bite strength, oral sensory changes, and decreased and poor oral hygiene practices emerged as common occurrences. Participants of this study also highlighted the lack of oral health support during inpatient care, emphasising the need for improvement in this area. CONCLUSION: Stroke impacts oral function and oral health of survivors, revealing gaps in oral health provision and follow-up in current healthcare settings.
Oral Care Cards as a Support in the Daily Life of Frail Older Adults: Experiences and Perceptions of Leaders in Municipal and Dental Care Settings.
Björns S, Velic M, Kylén JP
Gerodontology · 2026 Mar · PMID 41902334 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To explore the experiences and perceptions of oral care cards among strategic-level leaders within municipal and dental care organisations. BACKGROUND: Oral health is integral to overall well-being, especially...
OBJECTIVE: To explore the experiences and perceptions of oral care cards among strategic-level leaders within municipal and dental care organisations. BACKGROUND: Oral health is integral to overall well-being, especially in older adults, who frequently rely on caregiving services. In Sweden, paper-based oral care cards are intended to enhance communication and coordination across municipal and dental care, yet their practical effectiveness remains underexplored. Leaders are crucial for facilitating integrated person-centred care; exploring a strategic-level leadership perspective on these cards is therefore important for developing comprehensive cross-organisational oral health care strategies for ageing populations. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Using a qualitative, exploratory design, data were collected through semi-structured group interviews with leaders in municipal and dental care, as well as with senior researchers in nursing/person-centred care and the oral health domain. In total, 20 participants took part in the interviews. Inductive content analysis was employed. RESULTS: Participants called for a more cohesive, cross-organisational framework to improve the scope and usefulness of oral care cards. Three main categories emerged: (1) the necessity of a dynamic, adaptable process that accommodates changing oral health needs; (2) the importance of integrating oral care cards into existing workflows through coordinated leadership; and (3) the potential of oral care cards to promote reciprocal learning, person-centred care and preventive strategies. CONCLUSION: Oral care cards hold considerable promise for strengthening oral health among older adults. Long-term sustainability in a digitalising care system likely requires a hybrid approach, where paper-based cards function as low-threshold bedside prompts while key information is mirrored in secure digital infrastructures to enable follow-up, shared access and accountability.
Clinical Validity of the Oral Frailty Five-Item Checklist (OF-5) for the Diagnosis of Oral Hypofunction.
Tabata T, Hatanaka Y, Teraoka M … +4 more , Hirayama M, Koyanagi K, Suzuki H, Furuya J
Gerodontology · 2026 Mar · PMID 41873630 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to clinically validate the Oral Frailty Five-item Checklist (OF-5) by clarifying the relationship between its score and the diagnosis of oral dysfunction, as well as its association with seven...
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to clinically validate the Oral Frailty Five-item Checklist (OF-5) by clarifying the relationship between its score and the diagnosis of oral dysfunction, as well as its association with seven sub-items. BACKGROUND: Assessing oral frailty is important for preventing frailty in older adults. The recently developed OF-5 is anticipated as a convenient screening tool; however, its relationship with oral hypofunction, assessed through quantitative testing in dental clinics, has not been sufficiently verified. MATERIALS & METHODS: The study included 421 outpatients aged 65 years or older who underwent their first oral hypofunction test at a university dental hospital. Data on age, sex, OF-5 score, and oral hypofunction test values (oral hygiene, oral dryness, occlusal force, tongue-lip motor function, tongue pressure, masticatory function, and swallowing function) were extracted from medical records and analyzed using multivariate analysis. RESULTS: The age of the participants was 80.9 ± 6.5 (mean ± standard deviation) years, and 254 (60.3%) were female. Logistic regression analysis showed that the OF-5 score was significantly associated with the diagnosis of oral hypofunction (odds ratio: 2.54), with a cutoff value of 2 points. Multiple regression analysis showed significant associations between the OF-5 and all test components except oral hygiene. CONCLUSION: The OF-5 is a useful screening test for oral hypofunction, involving masticatory, swallowing, and tongue dysfunction and oral dryness. However, there is also a need for dental examination to identify poor oral hygiene, which cannot be detected using the OF-5 test.
Immersive Technologies in Geriatric Oral Health: Opportunities or Prejudices?
Luai AF, Nizar MAM, Misran AA … +2 more , Rosli TI, Shiratuddin MF
Gerodontology · 2026 Jun · PMID 41852205 · Publisher ↗
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Factors Influencing Oral Health Literacy in Older People: A Life-Course Perspective.
Lopes ABS, De Marchi RJ, Fajreldin V … +4 more , León S, Danke K, Werlinger F, Gamonal J
Gerodontology · 2026 Mar · PMID 41830130 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Oral health literacy (OHL) influences older adults' capacity to obtain, process and apply oral health information for self-care and decision-making. Evidence on OHL in community-dwelling older adults in Chi...
INTRODUCTION: Oral health literacy (OHL) influences older adults' capacity to obtain, process and apply oral health information for self-care and decision-making. Evidence on OHL in community-dwelling older adults in Chile remains scarce. This study explored the factors shaping OHL among Chilean community-dwelling older adults. METHODS: A qualitative exploratory study was conducted using the Grounded Theory approach. Older adults (≥ 65 years) were purposively sampled from three municipalities in Santiago, Chile, representing different levels of social vulnerability. Thirteen in-depth, face-to-face, semi-structured interviews were conducted. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed iteratively using constant comparison and open, axial and selective coding, categorising the answers to identify emerging topics until reaching saturation. Data triangulation included interviews, field observations and document reviews. RESULTS: Findings emerged into two overarching dimensions shaping OHL across the life course: upstream and downstream factors. Upstream factors included contextual factors, provider-related factors and system-related factors. Downstream factors encompassed individual and behavioural aspects that influenced access to dental care and attention. CONCLUSION: OHL in older adults is shaped by cumulative life-course experiences across structural, social and individual domains. Addressing OHL requires integrated public policies, professional training in patient-centred communication and community-based strategies targeting social determinants to promote equitable oral health in older age.
Response to Effect of Oral Screen Training After Stroke-A Randomised Controlled Trial.
Fabricius J
Gerodontology · 2026 Mar · PMID 41830091 · Publisher ↗
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Oral Health Status in Older Care Recipients and Family Caregiver Perceptions of Caregiving Burden.
Kishi S, Yamaguchi S, Komiyama T … +13 more , Tanaka Y, Igari Y, Ito Y, Ito Y, Uchigasaki I, Kuroda M, Sato M, Seki D, Daidoji A, Komaki KI, Narita K, Kosuga A, Hattori Y
Gerodontology · 2026 Mar · PMID 41821221 · Publisher ↗
AIM: To investigate oral health status, number of teeth, and denture use in older care recipients and their caregivers' perceptions of burden. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional survey of home care patients aged ≥ 65 ye...
AIM: To investigate oral health status, number of teeth, and denture use in older care recipients and their caregivers' perceptions of burden. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional survey of home care patients aged ≥ 65 years and their families who use the home-visit dental care service provided by the Sendai Dental Association. The short Japanese version of the Zarit Burden Interview (J-ZBI_8) was used to assess caregiver burden, with a score of ≥ 13 indicating high caregiver burden. Data on the oral and general condition of patients were extracted from home-visit dental treatment records. Oral health status was assessed using the Oral Health Assessment Tool (OHAT) as a median dichotomised ordinal variable (OHAT scores ≥ 5 or < 5). Multiple logistic regression analysis included 'high caregiver burden' as the dependent variable and 'number of teeth present' and 'denture use' as explanatory variables, incorporating an interaction term between 'number of teeth present' and OHAT status (≥ 5) alongside other covariates. RESULTS: A total of 117 individuals were included. 'Number of teeth present' (OR: 1.20; 95% CI: 1.06-1.36) was associated with higher odds of 'high caregiver burden' only in those with 'OHAT score ≥ 5'. 'Denture use' (OR: 4.29; 95% CI: 1.22-15.10) was associated with higher odds of 'high caregiver burden' regardless of oral health status. CONCLUSION: Older adults with poor oral health and a high number of teeth, or denture users, pose a greater caregiving burden. Dental professionals should recognise these stressors and support caregivers.
Implementing Clinical Practice Guidelines for Oral Care for (Frail) Older Patients: Facilitators, Barriers, and Recommendations.
Kroese JM, Bruers JJM
Gerodontology · 2026 Mar · PMID 41814635 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: The Dutch organisation for the development of clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) in oral care known as the Kennisinstituut Mondzorg (KIMO) developed three CPGs to support professionals in oral care for (fr...
INTRODUCTION: The Dutch organisation for the development of clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) in oral care known as the Kennisinstituut Mondzorg (KIMO) developed three CPGs to support professionals in oral care for (frail) older patients: (1) treatment of root caries, (2) xerostomia and hyposalivation related to medication and polypharmacy, and (3) oral care for homebound frail older adults. However, actual CPG use in practice is not guaranteed. This study aims to assess adherence to these CPGs among Dutch dentists, identify opportunities and barriers for implementation, and formulate recommendations for an effective implementation strategy. METHODS: A modified two-round Delphi study investigated current practices and opinions of dentists; 260 dentists were invited to participate. For round one, an online survey was developed based on the KIMO CPG recommendations. Round two, informed by round one results, explored perceived facilitators, barriers, suggestions for adapting less-followed recommendations, and preferences regarding CPG information and accessibility. RESULTS: In round one 41 dentists responded and in round two 44 responded. While the value of CPGs was acknowledged, adherence to several recommendations was limited due to practical barriers, such as time, equipment, training, and reimbursement. Further, communication with other healthcare providers was infrequent. Dentists preferred e-mail notifications and on-demand webinars. Digital availability via a website or app was favoured, though half still appreciate paper versions. CONCLUSION: Practical barriers hinder the use of CPG recommendations in oral care for (frail) older patients. Involving clinicians in guideline development is essential to improve feasibility and implementation.
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