Removing aging barriers in patient care

As much of the baby boomer generation approaches 65, the need for oral health care providers to be aware of the concerns of an aging population becomes paramount.

While much of this population is active and healthy, barriers to care can often include:

• chronic medical problems;
• multiple medications; and
• cognitive impairments. 

Among the solutions to address these concerns is a preventive and restorative approach to managing decay and periodontal disease, as well as specialized treatment planning for patients with cognitive disorders. Perhaps just as important is the opportunity for dentists to engage in dialogue on innovative approaches within oral health care. The Linda Niessen Geriatric Dentistry Symposium, held May 15 at Texas A&M University Baylor College of Dentistry, has been helping dentists address the needs of geriatric patients for three years and counting.