Hello i want you to add only 4 related research Articles and highlight them for me please. they have to be within 5 year and in APA format
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Community Dental Health Project:
Assessment, Diagnosis, Planning, Implementation, & Evaluation Phases
Oral Health Education for Senior Citizens Residing in Nursing Home Accepting Medicare
in Los Angeles County
Emily Berry
Mina Ghorbani
Dorit Halelouyan
Rachel Neydavood
Community Dental Health – DH 305
Professor Scott
Fall 2023
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Abstract
In one page or less, briefly describe your project’s purpose, an overview of what you plan to do, who you
will target and anticipated outcomes. Do not include citations in the abstract. Write your abstract last
after everything else is finalized.
Our project aims to enhance the oral health literacy among senior citizens aged 65 and above residing at
the Country Villa South Convalescent Center in the 90034 area code. The selection of this facility is
based on its acceptance of Medicare, a joint federal and state program providing health coverage for
individuals with limited income and resources. Our approach involves a two-visit plan. The first visit
focuses on gathering baseline data to assess the oral health needs and literacy levels of the residents. With
this initial assessment data in hand, we proceed to develop an oral health education presentation. This
visual presentation is complemented by selecting appropriate oral health aids for hands-on engagement
during our second visit. The second visit encompasses a pre-assessment to establish baseline data,
followed by the oral health education workshop. The session concludes with a post-assessment to gauge
the impact of our intervention. During our first visit, we assessed 22 out of the 81 residents, and during
the second visit, we assessed 18 residents. Our primary goal is to enhance the oral health literacy of the
residents by a minimum of 10%, a metric determined through pre-test and post-test surveys. This project
is designed to contribute positively to the well-being of the senior citizens in our target demographic,
aligning with our commitment to improving overall health outcomes in the community.
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I.
Assessment
In the oral health landscape among senior citizens in nursing facilities is a critical yet often
overlooked aspect of overall well being ( insert Article here to confirm . This assessment aims to
understand the oral health needs and challenges faced by senior citizens residing in nursing facilities
accepting Medicare in Los Angeles County. The primary objective is to tailor an oral health education.
The primary objective is to tailor an oral health education program that directly addresses their unique
requirements. Ultimately aiming to enhance their overall oral health and consequently their quality of life.
The data collection process involved a multifaceted approach, including surveys, interviews, facility and
resource assessments, and ethical considerations to ensure the wellbeing and privacy of the participating
residents. Surveys covered a range of aspects, from oral hygiene practices and dental health history to
access to dental care.
The timeline for this assessment spans from the development of project outlines and subject
selection in early September to the initial and second visit in November. Each phase of the timeline
aligns with specific objectives, from the development of health questionnaires to the implementation of
oral health education programs. In conclusion, this assessment phase lays a crucial foundation for the
development of effective and target interventions to address the specific oral health needs of senior
citizens in nursing facilities accepting Medicare in Los Angeles County. By understanding their
challenges, we aim to bridge the gap in oral health disparities, ultimately working towards a healthier and
more empowered senior population.
II.
Diagnosis
According to Medicare, States have flexibility to determine what dental benefits are
provided to adult Medicare enrollees. While most states provide at least emergency dental
services for adults, less than half of the states currently provide comprehensive dental care.
According to the article, Health literacy programs for older adults: a systematic literature
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review, “Adults over the age of 65 years have the lowest levels of health literacy compared with
younger age groups with a rapid decline in health literacy skills starting after 55 years of
age.”This program’s mission is to improve.
III. Planning
Three identifiable SMART objectives were created in order to work towards the broad goal of improving
the resident’s oral health literacy within this underserved population. The objectives are planned in order
to best implement the oral hygiene instructions and demonstrations to have a greater positive outcome.
The objectives are as follows:
1. After implementing the oral hygiene education program, by November 2023, participants will
increase their knowledge on the Oral Health Survey questionnaire from a baseline of an average
of 25% (3/12 questions) to 50% (6/12 questions).
2. After implementing the oral hygiene education program, by November 2023, participants able to
demonstrate proper brushing will increase from a baseline
3. Objective 2
4. One month after initiating the oral health education program, the number of residents at Country
Villa South Conv. Center flossing daily will increase from 17/30 (56%) to 25/30 (83%).
5.
6.
IV. Implementation
Assessing and improving oral health literacy among senior persons 65 years of age and
over who reside at the Country Villa South Convalescent Center in the 90034 area code was the
main goal of the implementation. The approach consisted of multiple steps used to accomplish
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this goal. To find out more about the residents’ oral health habits and assess their level of oral
health literacy, a pre-survey was first given to them. “ Elderly people, particularly those
with diminishing autonomy, require assistance in carrying out their daily oral
hygiene and remembering their fluoride products” ( which many of the
patients explained to us.
The survey had multiple-choice questions designed to assess the residents’ understanding
of oral health education. The citizens’ general problem of low oral health literacy was identified
through a further review of the pre-survey data. An Oral Health Instruction (OHI) presentation
was arranged for the residents in response to these results. Important components of dental health
were discussed in the presentation, along with guidance and data to help residents better
understand. The OHI presentation was designed with care to be active, appealing, and suited to
the specific needs of the audience.
The residents showed a strong interest in enhancing their dental health by actively
participating in the presentation. In our implementation phase, we incorporated a hands-on
activity that followed the “Tell, Show, Do” approach. This involved using mouth models to
demonstrate the use of different dental tools, as well as the modified bass brushing and c-shape
flossing techniques. The residents were given instructions on how to use these dental aids
properly, and then they were given the opportunity to practice using the mouth models. The
residents had the chance to share their concerns and ask questions during an open discussion
session that was led after the presentation. This interactive factor allowed the residents to
participate in improving their dental health while also creating a sense of community. A postsurvey was done to evaluate the OHI session’s impact. According to the survey results, there has
been a good shift in the oral health knowledge and behaviors of the people. Overall, the
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implementation improved the residents general well-being by solving the problem of inadequate
oral health literacy.
V.
Evaluation
After the first implementation and next follow-up, a post-assessment questionnaire was
given to the residents. The pre-assessment survey was replicated in this questionnaire, which
also included additional questions about understanding post-oral hygiene instructions and
education. Each resident received a post-assessment questionnaire, and they had between 15 and
20 minutes to complete it. After finishing, the answers were carefully examined to address any
unresolved issues.
All of the program’s SMART objective outcomes showed progress, according to an
analysis of the survey data that was gathered. Overall, the program’s implementation was
successful, as shown by the positive outcomes and participant response. The pre-survey’s
original finding of inadequate oral health literacy was successfully addressed by the techniques
put into practice. The OHI presentation has proven to be an effective way to educate residents
about oral health issues, especially when combined with open communication, show-tell-do
method and active resident participation. The post-survey findings showed a significant
improvement in the residents’ understanding of oral health, which improved their general
wellbeing.
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Assessment
Background and Rationale:
The aim of this assessment phase is to thoroughly understand the oral health needs and
challenges faced by senior citizens residing in nursing facilities accepting Medicare in Los
Angeles County. By conducting a comprehensive assessment, we can tailor our oral health
education program to address their specific requirements and improve their overall oral health
and quality of life.
A. Target Population
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a. Senior citizens (65+) residing in nursing facilities accepting Medicare in and
around the 90230 zip code
i. Residents at Country Villa South Convalescent Center
1. Initial Visit/Assessment
a. Out of the 81 residents at this facility, 22 residents were
available and/or willing to participate in the health
questionnaire at the initial visit. This gave us a sample size
of 27% of our target population.
B. Problem Statement
a. The overarching issue is the lack of oral health literacy among senior citizens
residing in the Country Villa South Conv. Ctr. This deficiency in knowledge
contributes to significant oral health disparities and challenges for the low-income
nursing facilities in the Los Angeles County population. The absence of access to
adequate oral healthcare services further compounds the problem, resulting in
untreated dental issues, pain, discomfort, and a diminished quality of life.
Additionally, the absence of tailored oral health programs specifically designed
for senior citizens in low-income nursing facilities exacerbates the gap in
addressing their unique needs. To address this fundamental challenge, there is an
urgent need to assess the oral health status, knowledge, and barriers to care among
this demographic. This assessment will serve as a foundation for developing
effective and targeted oral health education interventions, with the aim of
improving oral health outcomes and the overall well-being of senior citizens in
these facilities.
i. ** Be more specific about “face significant oral health disparities and
challenges” .. what are the challenges? What specifically are they at high
risk for. When you state a problem say they’re at high risk of specific
disease, or disparity among the population.
1. Periodontal disease, xerostomia, edentulousness, etc.
2. Stick to one thing so research is correlated and consistent
3. Also helps you get more specific with objectives
4. Identify disparity through research
a. Articles support disparity or population is at higher risk of
specific disease.
b. Primarily lack dental insurance b/c Medical, etc. often
doesn’t cover dental. Do they have medicaid and medicare?
c. Older individuals more likely to have periodontal disease
d. Disparity identified through research not questionnaire.
Most of them don’t know what it is. Questionnaire will
support research you find.
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C. Goal
a. The goal is to enhance oral health literacy and overall quality of life for senior
citizens (aged 65+) in low-income nursing facilities that accept Medicare in Los
Angeles County. This will be achieved through the development and
implementation of a comprehensive oral health education program specifically
tailored to address their unique needs and challenges.
i. Once you choose problem you can rewrite a more specific goal
ii. Problem: Lack of oral health literacy
D. Program Rationale
a. Oral health is a fundamental aspect of overall well-being, yet it is often neglected,
particularly among vulnerable populations such as senior citizens residing in lowincome nursing facilities. Poor oral health can lead to a range of serious issues,
including pain, infection, malnutrition, and decreased quality of life. Many seniors
face barriers to accessing dental care and lack knowledge about proper oral
hygiene practices. This project’s rationale is rooted in the need to address these
disparities and improve the oral health outcomes of senior citizens in low-income
nursing facilities in Los Angeles County. By providing targeted oral health
education and support, we aim to empower seniors to take control of their oral
health, prevent oral diseases, and enhance their overall quality of life. This
initiative aligns with the principles of health equity, preventive care, and the
promotion of well-being among underserved populations.
1. Data Collection
a. Medicare Acceptance
i. Nursing facilities were initially screened by using
https://www.familyassets.com/nursing-homes/california/ to determine
which homes accept Medicare in Los Angeles County, specifically,
around the 90230 zip code. Medicare is a government program in the
United States that provides health coverage for low-income individuals
and families. Facilities were then individually contacted to assess need and
do an initial observational screening of facilities and residents.
ii. Nursing Home Facilities (Near Culver City, 90230) – Scores are out of 10
Stars
1. Southern California Hospital at Culver City
a. 3828 Delmas Terrace, Culver City, CA 90230
b. $5,535 – Average monthly cost before discounts
c. 4.8 Stars – Resident review score
d. Close to school
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i.
NOT A NURSING FACILITY. THIS IS A
REGULAR HOSPITAL.
2. Country Villa South Conv. Ctr.
a. 3515 Overland Avenue, Los Angeles, CA, 90034
b. $8,127 – Average monthly cost before discounts
c. 4.5 Stars – Resident review score
3. Marina Pointe Healthcare & Subacute
a. 5240 Sepulveda Blvd, Culver City, CA, 90230
b. $5,400 – Average monthly cost before discounts
c. 3.7 Stars – Resident review score
4. Marycrest Manor
a. 10664 St. James Drive, Culver City, CA, 90230
b. $5,200 – Average monthly cost before discounts
c. No rating
5. Culver West Health Center
a. 4035 Grandview Blvd, Los Angeles, CA, 90066
b. $5,200 – Average monthly cost before discounts
c. 8.0 Stars – Resident review score
iii. Initial Greeting / Request for Facility Visit:
1. Hello, my name is (insert name). I am a Dental Hygiene student in
my final semester at West Los Angeles College in Culver City.
Myself, as well as three other students, are interested in visiting
your facility to meet with the residents and caretakers to discuss
and provide oral health education, all at no cost, for our
Community Health class. Is that something (insert name of facility)
would be interested in?
a. Country Villa South Conv. Ctr.
i. This location took over a minute to answer the
phone, which for a senior home, could be
considered worrisome. The supervisor was in a
meeting, but the receptionist, Josh, took my
(Emily’s) information.
b. Marina Pointe Healthcare & Subacute
i. This location also let the phone ring. There was no
answer, and there was no answering machine. It
concerns me since I would assume people are trying
to get in contact with their loved ones.
c. Marycrest Manor
i. This facility had an appropriate extension system
with menu options.
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ii. Left a voicemail for the operator.
d. Culver West Health Center
i. Spoke with Eileen who stated she would give me a
call back. Phone rang for less time than other
locations, but no answering system and it sounded
as though the staff was stressed on the other end of
the line.
2. After the initial round of calling the locations, I am alarmed with
the lack of access directly to the staff and patients.
3. Country Villa South Convalescent Center was the only facility to
get back to our group approving a visit.
b. Surveys
i. A standardized oral health survey questionnaire was developed to be
administered to residents. This survey will include questions related to
oral hygiene practices, dental health history, oral health-related quality of
life, and access to dental care.
1. Health Questionnaire: Document attached separate (4 pages – 28
questions total)
a. **Before and after survey to compare existing knowledge
and after implementing program see the outcome.
Questionnaire needs to be very similar. Tools for baseline
data and end data need to be the same. Make sure the tool
you’re using is catered toward our specific subject/goal and
has to be relevant to educational program. Teaching them
primarily oral hygiene instruction. Assess what they know
before and what they know after. Educating about
periodontal disease? Assess what they know about
periodontal disease before and after. Initial survey was the
assessment.**
c. Observations
i. Direct observations of residents’ oral health status
1. Signs of dental issues (cavities, gum disease, missing teeth, etc.)
a. Plaque & calculus
b. Sensitivity & pain
c. Missing teeth
d. Non-compliance (not brushing or flossing)
e. Lack of education
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d. Focus Groups
i. Focus group discussions with residents
1. After the initial visit, a focus group presentation was created and
conducted at following visit addressing the issues that presented
upon the clinical observation and analyzing the questionnaire
results.
a. **Get as many residents as you can, but no set number**
b. **talk with the staff and educate them too. Pamphlet or
suggestions, etc.**
ii. Qualitative insights into their perceptions, attitudes, and barriers related to
oral health
1. Lack of awareness
2. Lack of wanting to be compliant
2. Oral Health Assessment
a. Dental Examinations
i. Collaborate with licensed dental professionals to perform oral health
examinations for residents, including assessments of dental hygiene, gum
health, and oral tissue abnormalities. (Can we ask Professor Scott to be
present so we can do these exams?) **no MOU established with this
organization**
b. Oral Health Risk Assessment
i. Identify residents at higher risk of dental problems, such as those with
diabetes or taking medications affecting oral health. Collect data on
number of residents and the number of residents living with 2+ medical
conditions.
c. Survey/Questionnaire
i.
Health survey
ii.
Oral hygiene routine questionnaire – initial assessment (created by Emily
& Mina)
1. See attached Health Questionnaire file
iii. Oral health literacy questionnaire – second visit (created by Emily)
iv. Oral health education presentation – second visit (created by Emily)
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d. Interview and Observation
i.
Interview residents and caretakers on potential questions, challenges,
concerns at initial visit
ii.
Bring OHI models to observe and assess how residents are brushing and
flossing at second visit
iii. Observe facility including resident’s toothbrushes and access to oral
hygiene tools at initial and second visit
1. Observe brushes for fraying, moisture control, bacteria, infection
control, etc.
e. Cater presentation/workshop at second visit to residents and caretakers based on
needs of the facility as identified through questionnaires
f. Re-test with same questionnaire and compare results from initial visit to second
visit
3. Facility and Resource Assessment
a. Facility Policies
i. Social worker on site indicated a mobile dental unit visits once a month
and there are quarterly cleanings.
ii. Patients indicated the facility provides them with toothbrushes and
toothpaste, but when the residents decline to take it, the facility does not
encourage them to remain compliant with brushing and flossing.
iii. Several residents indicated that the facility staff does not assist them with
brushing and/or flossing.
b. Availability of Resources
i. Assess the availability of oral hygiene supplies, including toothbrushes,
toothpaste, and denture care products, within the facility.
c. Staff Training
i. Evaluate the training and awareness of facility staff regarding oral health
care for residents.
4. Data Analysis:
a. Analyze survey responses, observations, and dental examination findings to identify
prevalent oral health issues and resident-specific needs.
i. Answers to questionnaire found below
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ii.
Out of the 81 residents at Country Villa South Convalescent Center, only 22 (27%
of our target population) were available and/or willing to take the initial
assessment questionnaire.
iii. Areas of Concern (Initial Assessment)
1. 9/22 (40.9%) of residents have not been to the dentist for routine checkups or cleanings in the past 3 years
2. 5/22 (31.3%) of residents visited the dentist only because something was
wrong, bothering, or hurting them
3. 4/22 (30.8%) of residents did not visit the dentist due to fear,
apprehension, nervousness, or because they dislike going
4. 10/22 (45.5%) of residents described the condition of their mouth and
teeth as “Fair” with 5/20 (22.7%) of residents describing their condition as
“Poor.”
5. 8/22 (36.4%) of residents during the past 12 months did not get dental
care, including checkups, because they could not afford it.
6. 6/22 (27.3%) of residents experience oral pain occasionally and 1/22
(4.5%) of residents experience pain “Always.”
7. 5/22 (22.7%) of residents brush their teeth for more than 3 minutes and
4/22 (18.2%) of residents brush their teeth for less than a minute.
8. 9/22 (40.9%) of residents believe that medium bristled toothbrushes are
recommended for most people, and 1/22 (4.5%) believe hard bristled
toothbrushes are recommended for most people.
9. 9/22 (40.9%) of residents don’t know how often they should floss.
10. 6/22 (27.3%) of residents report that they have been diagnosed with gum
disease or periodontal problems and 3/22 (13.6%) do not know.
11. 10/22 (45.5%) of residents experience dental sensitivity or discomfort
when consuming hot or cold foods/drinks
a. ~4/22 (18.2%) to Cold
b. ~1/22 (4.5%) to Hot
12. 8/22 (36.4%) of residents are not aware of any specific dietary
recommendations for maintaining good oral health.
13. 8/22 (36.4%) of residents have medical conditions or take medications that
may affect their oral health.
14. 8/22 (36.4%) of residents do not know how often they schedule dental
check-ups and cleanings.
15. 10/22 (45.5%) of residents have not received any instructions or
recommendations from their dentist regarding their oral hygiene routine.
16. 8/22 (36.4%) of residents experience challenges or difficulties in
maintaining their oral hygiene due to mobility and dexterity issues and
lack of access from the facility.
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17. 1/22 (4.5%) of residents had their partial denture stolen. The majority of
residents do not have dentures or dental appliances.
18. At least 3/22 (13.6%) of residents are not brushing their teeth.
19. At least 6/22 (27.3%) of residents are not flossing.
20. Patients seem unsure on the proper brushing technique.
21. Additional Comments from Patients
a. “I’m not brushing enough because staff is busy and can’t help me”
b. “I was supposed to go for a cleaning 6 days ago but I had a
hospital visit two days before. My insurance covers my
transportation so I have to work on rescheduling with my
insurance.”
c. “I want to learn about how to manage my oral hygiene. I’m
concerned about biting an apple.”
b. Categorize residents into risk groups based on their oral health status and related
health conditions.
5. Ethical Considerations
a. Ensure the informed consent of residents or their legal representatives for
participation in examinations, surveys, and focus group discussions.
i. Got confirmation from the facility coordinator, Niki, that we were allowed to
visit. Scheduled a date based on their availability.
ii. Informed each resident who we were, what we were doing, and did not provide
questionnaires to anyone who did not wish to willingly participate.
b. Maintain confidentiality and privacy of residents’ health information.
i. No names were required to fill out the questionnaire – only year born and gender.
ii. Any names that were written on the form were blacked out or discarded at the
facility.
iii. Each questionnaire was filled out individually by residents to avoid verbally
speaking resident’s personal information in front of others. Only when the
patient’s consented to having the questions read to them and answered verbally
was information spoken aloud in private rooms.
6. Timeline
● September 7 – September 14, 2023
○ Develop project outlines and subject (Emily)
● September 14 – September 25, 2023
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○ Created list and did initial contacting of senior homes accepting Medicare around
90230 (Emily)
○ James from Country Villa South Convalescent Center confirmed our group can
visit the facility (Mina)
■ The activity coordinator, Niki, will set up a living room for us to do our
presentation
● September 25 – October 1, 2023
○ Assessment – Development of health questionnaire and oral hygiene routine
questionnaire (Emily & Mina)
○ Diagnosis – Planning portion, pre-visit (Emily)
○ Planning – Planning portion, pre-visit (Emily)
○ Develop SMART Objectives (Rachel & Emily)
○ Implementation – Planning portion, pre-visit
○ Evaluation – Planning portion, pre-visit
● October 4, 2023
○
Initial visit to Country Villa South Convalescent Center at 2:00 PM (Emily,
Mina, Dorit, Rachel)
■ Create initial questionnaire to determine needs of residents (Emily &
Mina)
■ Provide residents with survey and questionnaire (Emily, Mina, Dorit,
Rachel)
■ Observe state of the facility, resident’s toothbrushes, access to hygiene
supplies and signs of lack of awareness
■ Interview residents and caretakers to assess knowledge, routine, and assess
for any oral health/hygiene concerns
■ Take information from assessment and develop goals for re-evaluation
visit
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○ Upload Health Questionnaire responses into Google Forms to analyze statistics
and upload under “Assessment” portion of ADPIE Project (Emily)
● November 22, 2023
○ Second visit at Country Villa South Convalescent Center
■ Create oral health literacy questionnaire (Emily)
■ Create oral health education presentation (Emily)
■ Provide residents with oral health literacy questionnaire before and after
presentation
■ Share presentation and workshop with residents based on their individual
oral hygiene needs after assessing at initial visit
■ Compare scores from initial assessment and re-evaluation to observe if
improvements were made after oral health education workshop
● Due Date
○ Evaluate findings and develop comprehensive ADPIE Project Outline based on
our target population
7. Expected Outcomes
a. A comprehensive understanding of the oral health status and needs of senior citizens in
the targeted nursing facilities.
b. Identification of key challenges, barriers, and risk factors affecting oral health.
c. Data-driven insights to inform the development of a tailored oral health education
program for residents.
8. Initial Assessment – Questionnaire Responses
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Diagnosis
1. Greatest oral health needs that apply to target population:
a. Dental Decay and Cavities: Many seniors may have untreated dental decay and
cavities due to limited access to dental care and oral hygiene practices.
b. Periodontal Disease: Gum disease, including gingivitis and periodontitis, is
common among seniors, which can lead to tooth loss and systemic health issues.
c. Oral Infections: Seniors may be at risk of oral infections, including oral thrush,
due to weakened immune systems or certain medications.
d. Xerostomia (Dry Mouth): Medications and medical conditions can contribute to
dry mouth, which increases the risk of tooth decay and discomfort.
e. Tooth Loss: Many seniors may have missing teeth, affecting their ability to chew
food properly and impacting their nutrition.
f. Oral Cancer: Seniors may be at higher risk of oral cancer, and early detection is
crucial for successful treatment.
g. Lack of Oral Health Knowledge: Limited awareness of proper oral hygiene
practices and preventive measures is a significant challenge.
h. Barriers to Accessing Dental Care: Mobility issues, transportation challenges, and
financial constraints may prevent seniors from seeking regular dental check-ups
and treatments.
i. Nutrition and Dietary Impact: Poor oral health can affect seniors’ ability to eat a
balanced diet, leading to malnutrition and related health problems.
j. Psychosocial Impact: Oral health issues can lead to pain, embarrassment, and
reduced self-esteem, affecting seniors’ overall well-being and quality of life.
i. Keep information streamlined toward our ONE goal. Pick a topic. Ok to
talk about oral systemic link, tooth loss, health knowledge, nutrition,
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psychosocial impact, dexterity issues b/c they’re all related to periodontal
disease.
2. Existing programs that address the oral health of target population:
a. Community Dental Clinics: Los Angeles has various community dental clinics
that offer reduced-cost or free dental services to seniors and low-income
individuals. These clinics often provide comprehensive dental care, including
cleanings, fillings, extractions, and denture services.
b. Mobile Dental Clinics: Some organizations operate mobile dental clinics that visit
nursing facilities and senior centers to provide on-site dental care to residents.
These clinics offer convenience and accessibility to seniors who may have
mobility issues.
c. Oral Health Education Workshops: Non-profit organizations, dental associations,
and healthcare providers frequently conduct oral health education workshops for
seniors in nursing homes. These workshops cover topics such as proper oral
hygiene, nutrition, and the importance of regular dental check-ups.
d. Medi-Cal Dental Program: Medi-Cal, California’s Medicare program, offers
dental benefits to eligible low-income seniors. This program covers a range of
dental services, including preventive care, restorative treatments, and dentures.
i. Education about benefits**** MediCal nursing facility so they have it.
Know the MediCal benefits. Can include it in presentation.
e. Local Aging and Senior Services: County and city departments of aging and
senior services often partner with dental providers to offer oral health screenings
and education at senior centers and nursing facilities.
f. Senior Wellness Programs: Some senior wellness programs incorporate oral
health assessments and referrals to dental care as part of their overall health
services. These programs focus on the holistic well-being of seniors.
g. Dental Hygiene Schools: Dental hygiene schools and programs in Los Angeles
may offer low-cost or free dental services to seniors as part of their clinical
training. This provides seniors with access to care while allowing dental hygiene
students to gain experience.
h. Non-Profit Organizations: Several non-profit organizations in Los Angeles are
dedicated to improving the oral health of underserved populations, including
seniors. These organizations often collaborate with local dental professionals to
deliver care and education.
i. Telehealth Services: In recent years, some dental providers have started offering
telehealth services, allowing seniors to consult with dentists remotely for
assessments and guidance.
j. Medicare Advantage Plans: Some Medicare Advantage plans may include dental
benefits, making it easier for seniors to access dental care services.
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3. Unmet needs of target audience:
a. Limited Access to Dental Care: Many seniors in nursing facilities face challenges
in accessing dental care services. They may have mobility issues that make it
difficult to travel to dental clinics, and transportation options may be limited.
b. Financial Barriers: Affordability is a significant barrier to dental care for lowincome seniors. While some may have dental coverage through Medicare (MediCal in California) or Medicare Advantage plans, coverage limitations and out-ofpocket costs can still pose challenges.
c. Lack of Preventive Care: Preventive dental care, such as regular check-ups and
cleanings, is essential for maintaining oral health. However, seniors may not
receive these services regularly, leading to untreated dental issues.
d. Limited Education: Seniors may lack access to oral health education programs
that teach proper oral hygiene practices, dietary choices, and the importance of
oral health for overall well-being.
e. Oral Health Literacy: Some seniors may have low oral health literacy, which can
affect their ability to understand and follow oral care recommendations.
f. Complex Health Conditions: Many seniors in nursing facilities have complex
health conditions, which can impact their oral health. Chronic illnesses,
medications, and cognitive impairments may increase the risk of dental problems.
g. Denture Care: Seniors who wear dentures may require guidance on proper denture
care and maintenance to prevent oral health issues associated with ill-fitting or
poorly cared-for dentures.
h. Pain and Discomfort: Dental pain and discomfort can significantly affect seniors’
quality of life. Untreated dental issues can lead to pain, difficulty eating, and
social isolation.
i. Referral and Coordination: There may be challenges in coordinating dental
referrals and follow-up care for seniors in nursing facilities. Clear referral
pathways and communication between healthcare providers are essential.
j. Mental Health Impact: Poor oral health can have a negative impact on seniors’
mental health and overall well-being. It may lead to anxiety, depression, or
decreased self-esteem.
k. Cultural and Language Barriers: Seniors from diverse cultural backgrounds may
face language and cultural barriers in accessing dental care and understanding oral
health recommendations.
l. Limited Dental Facilities in Nursing Homes: Some nursing facilities may lack onsite dental facilities or regular visits from dental professionals.
SENIOR CITIZENS
30
Planning
3 SMART Objectives
Objective 1:
Specific: To assess the baseline oral health knowledge of senior citizens (aged 65+) residing in low-income nursing
facilities in the Country Villa South Conv. Ctr.
Measurable: Administer a pre-assessment questionnaire to the senior citizens living in the home, covering topics
such as oral hygiene practices, dental care utilization, and knowledge of common oral health issues.
Achievable: The assessment will be conducted over a 1 month period, with the support of trained surveyors and
nursing facility staff.
Relevant: Understanding the baseline knowledge is important for figuring out the oral health education program to
address what is missing in their oral hygiene knowledge.
Time-bound: Complete the baseline assessment within 1 month from the program initiation date.
Objective 2:
Specific: To develop a culturally sensitive and accessible oral health education curriculum for senior citizens based
on the findings.
Measurable: Create a comprehensive oral health education curriculum that includes written materials, visual aids,
and interactive sessions finding out what is missing in their oral hygiene knowledge..
Achievable: work together with dental professionals to develop the curriculum.
Relevant: The curriculum will be designed to address the specific oral health needs and challenges identified in the
assessment.
Time-bound: Develop the curriculum within a month and a half from completing the baseline assessment.
Objective 3:
Specific: To implement the oral health education program in at least two nursing facilities in Los Angeles County
within the semester.
Measurable: Successfully deliver the oral health education program to a minimum of however many senior citizens
across the two facilities.
Achievable: Establish trust with the facilities to figure out the educational goals needed to establish proper oral
health
Relevant: The program’s implementation aligns with the goal of improving oral health outcomes for the target
population.
Time-bound: Begin program implementation within the semester from the curriculum development completion
date and continue it for the rest of the semester.
***Not right format, stick with objectives from project planning assignment we turned in***
3 Strategies (with Activities)
BINGO!
( working on a bingo card on canva ) mina
Presentation with OHI Models
SENIOR CITIZENS
31
Timeline
Roles
Responsibilities (how, when, how long, by whom)
Project Goal and Objectives
Lesson Plan
Summary
Implementation
Summary (rachel)
Assessing and improving oral health literacy among senior persons 65 years of age and
over who reside at the Country Villa South Convalescent Center in the 90034 area code was the
main goal of the implementation. The approach consisted of multiple steps used to accomplish
this goal. To find out more about the residents’ oral health habits and assess their level of oral
health literacy, a pre-survey was first given to them.
The survey had multiple-choice questions designed to assess the residents’ understanding
of oral health education. The citizens’ general problem of low oral health literacy was identified
through a further review of the pre-survey data. An Oral Health Instruction (OHI) presentation
was arranged for the residents in response to these results. Important components of dental health
were discussed in the presentation, along with guidance and data to help residents better
understand. The OHI presentation was designed with care to be active, appealing, and suited to
the specific needs of the audience.
The residents showed a strong interest in enhancing their dental health by actively
participating in the presentation. The residents had the chance to share their concerns and ask
questions during an open discussion session that was led after the presentation. This interactive
factor allowed the residents to participate in improving their dental health while also creating a
sense of community. A post-survey was done to evaluate the OHI session’s impact. According to
the survey results, there has been a good shift in the oral health knowledge and behaviors of the
people. Overall, the implementation improved the residents general well-being by solving the
problem of inadequate oral health literacy.
SENIOR CITIZENS
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Evaluation
Outcomes (rachel)
The pre-survey’s finding of low oral health literacy was effectively addressed by the
implementation. The OHI presentation turned out to be a successful method for improving the
residents’ awareness of oral health issues, especially when combined with resident participation
and open conversation. The post-survey outcomes show a notable increase in the residents’ oral
health knowledge, which enhances their general wellbeing.
Reflection (improvements, etc.) – DIDNT DO THIS
References
Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. (2013-2014). Oral health survey of maryland older
adults, 2013-2014. https://www.astdd.org/www/docs/md-dr-des23013-older-adult-bpar-healthquestionaire.pdf
https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/dental-services
Manafo, E., & Wong, S. (2012, June 29). Health literacy programs for older adults: a
systematic literature review. Academic.oup.com.
https://academic.oup.com/her/article/27/6/947/656687
Pitts, N., Twetman, S., Fisher, J. et al. Understanding dental caries as a
non-communicable disease. Br Dent J 231, 749–753 (2021).
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41415-021-3775-4