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Issues in financing dental care for the elderly.
J A Jones1, R Adelson, L C Niessen
1Geriatric Dental Program Veterans Affairs Medical Center Bedford, MA.
Journal of Public Health Dentistry
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Elderly patients are a growing demographic in dental care, with many at high risk for oral disease and limited access. Policy changes are needed to address these oral health disparities in older adults.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Dental Public Health
- Health Services Research
Background:
- The elderly population is expanding, increasing their representation in dental practices.
- A significant portion of older adults face high risks for oral diseases.
- Access to dental treatment remains a challenge for many elderly individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current research on the oral health of the elderly.
- To identify high-risk groups within the elderly population for policy consideration.
- To propose policy options for improving oral healthcare access and outcomes for seniors.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent epidemiologic research.
- Analysis of demographic trends in the elderly population.
- Examination of health services research related to dental care access and utilization.
Main Results:
- Significant segments of the elderly population are identified as high-risk for oral diseases.
- Many elderly individuals experience limited access to necessary dental treatments.
- Oral care is categorized into primary, acute, and rehabilitative components.
Conclusions:
- The elderly are a high-risk group warranting specific policy considerations for oral health.
- Integrating dental care funding with other primary health services can improve outcomes.
- Multi-level policy approaches (federal, state, local) are crucial for meeting the future oral health needs of elders.