October is National Dental Hygiene Month. This is the perfect time for you to evaluate your elder’s oral health, and the steps they take to protect their mouth health, so you can make sure they are as healthy as possible. As a family caregiver, it is important to recognize that taking care of your senior’s oral health is not just about keeping their mouth healthy. What happens in your parent’s mouth can impact their entire body. Understanding this risk can help you to take the proper steps to protect their well-being, and also to recognize challenges that may arise.
Some issues that may arise due to oral health problems include:
- Broken teeth or tooth loss
- Decayed teeth
- Gum infections
- Gingivitis
- Infections that spread through the body
- Risk of heart problems
- Risk of liver problems
- Gastrointestinal difficulties
- Difficulty getting proper nutrition because of pain and weakness in the teeth making it difficult to chew food properly
- Risk for development of serious health problems, such as meningitis that can be deadly
If your parent is struggling with oral health problems, it can negatively impact their entire body. It is very important to recognize when your parent might be dealing with these issues, and to take steps to resolve and prevent them. This is particularly important for an elder with cognitive functioning decline, as they will be unable to express what they are going through, and may not understand the importance of taking care of their teeth.
No matter how devoted you are to caring for your parent, or committed to your role as a family caregiver, during this experience with your parent you may find care tasks that are emotionally difficult for both you and your aging parent. Tasks such as assistance with bathing, toileting, dressing, and grooming are all common needs for seniors, but they can be embarrassing for your parent, and stressful for you.
Fortunately, an elder care provider can step in to help. The customized services of an elder home care services provider are designed to manage your senior’s needs in ways that are respectful, dignified, and effective. This means your parent can receive the help they need with reduced embarrassment and discomfort because it is from a neutral professional, and you can feel less stress and anxiety. This enables you to focus your energy and attention in more efficient and meaningful ways, and maintain more of your parent-child relationship with your parent.
Source: https://www.ada.org/en/member-center/oral-health-topics/aging-and-dental-health
If you or an aging loved one are in need of Elder Care Services in Northport NY or the surrounding areas, contact the caring professionals at Star Multi Care Services today at (631)956-8835. We are the Right Choice for Home Health Care Services!
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