Working with the geriatric population as dietitians means that we need to be awa

Question

Working with the geriatric population as dietitians means that we need to be aware of certain health needs that may apply more directly towards this population. One of these health needs that demands specific attention is the oral-dental status of older adults. When we go to the dentist as children and young adults, we may have a condition called gingivitis, which is when harmful bacteria infiltrate our gums and our gum tissues and create an inflammatory response to combat the harmful bacteria. This response makes the gums red, swollen, and irritated, which is why it is a good idea to regularly go to the dentist before and while reaching elderly age. The older we get and the more gingivitis and irritation that occurs, the greater the likelihood is that we will eventually develop periodontal disease or the more serious form of the disease, periodontitis. Periodontal disease is what happens to the gums when they have been experiencing gingivitis for an extended period of time, and the gums begin to detach themselves from the teeth and the connective tissues between the gums and teeth are partially or completely dismantled.

Malnutrition in geriatric patients can lead to a multitude of health problems including increased risk of bone loss and broken bones, higher risk of infection, age-related macular degeneration (an eye disease that eventually causes vision loss), muscle weakness, cognitive decline, among other health destinations. The maintenance of proper nutrition in this age group of older adults is of the utmost importance; however, it is more difficult to achieve due to decreased physiological function, as well as other factors such as oral-dental status. It is the dietitians job to ensure that proper nutrition is achieved through appropriate referrals, and nutrition counseling with consideration of age and chewing and swallowing capabilities.

Question 1: As a dietitian with a geriatric patient with periodontal disease and malnutrition, what would be your first nutrition recommendation?

Question 2: Why is it so common for geriatric patients to develop oral-dental health problems?

Explanation / Answer

1) The first recommendation would be the on the periodontal disease because it has more negative impact on the dietary intake and nutritional status because the capacity to chew and eat will be diminished.So dietician suggest that importance of dental care in the elderly population is an integral part by facilitating proper access to dental care and receiving proper oral care in the early stage may reduce the risk of malnutrition in the future and to improve the quality of life

2) With aging ,body of the geriatric patients may undergo several changes which affect all the body parts including the oral cavity.Many studies have proved that denture stomatitis and dry mouth are common disorders in geriatric people.So the geriatric patients if they receive proper health care and improve their attitudes towards oral health, many medical disorders will be prevented.

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