Training and interprofessional collaboration to improve oral care for older people
Collaboration between oral care providers, district nurses and/or carers and nurse practioners in primary care is necessary to improve the oral health of frail and care-dependent older people. On the one hand, this is important when the oral health of older people is at risk of deteriorating and support in daily oral hygiene care is needed. On the other hand, it makes it easier for district nurses and carers to consult the oral care provider when they identify oral health problems. In general, interprofessional care contributes to a better awareness of the importance of good oral health and oral care in older people. On-the-job training could be an effective method for training oral health care skills by care professionals. .