We aimed to examine the effects of oral care in patients with terminal cancer approaching death.
Background
Patients with terminal-stage cancer often experience symptoms like oral dryness and candidiasis. Previous studies showed that without professional dental care, oral hygiene significantly worsens within 3 weeks before death. Therefore, oral management is essential for patients with terminal cancer. However, the specific effects of oral hygiene in these patients remain unclear.
Material and Methods
Twenty patients were admitted to two palliative care units at our institution between June 2022 and May 2023 and received oral care multiple times before death. Oral hygiene was assessed using the Oral Health Assessment Tool (OHAT), and oral dryness was evaluated with an oral moisture checker. The Face Rating Scale (FRS) was assessed before and after professional oral care.
Results
During the week of death, the number of people who were able to speak and follow instructions decreased, while the number who used sedatives and oxygen increased. There was no significant difference in the degree of oral dryness before oral care between the time of hospitalisation and the week of death. However, oral dryness improved significantly after oral care at admission (before: 21.0 ± 8.3, after: 26.7 ± 3.2) and the week of death (before: 16.8 ± 8.4, after: 25.8 ± 3.7). There was no difference in the time taken for oral care or FRS scores at admission and the week of death.
Conclusion
Continuous oral care in patients with terminal cancer can prevent worsening oral hygiene and maintain moisture.
{"title":"Effects of Oral Care in Terminal Cancer Patients Shortly Before Death","authors":"Mieko Okamoto, Hiroko Tanaka, Shigeru Tamura, Daisuke Kanamori, Miyuki Yokoi, Masanobu Usui, Mitsuyoshi Yoshida","doi":"10.1111/ger.70008","DOIUrl":"10.1111/ger.70008","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Objective</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>We aimed to examine the effects of oral care in patients with terminal cancer approaching death.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Background</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Patients with terminal-stage cancer often experience symptoms like oral dryness and candidiasis. Previous studies showed that without professional dental care, oral hygiene significantly worsens within 3 weeks before death. Therefore, oral management is essential for patients with terminal cancer. However, the specific effects of oral hygiene in these patients remain unclear.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Material and Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Twenty patients were admitted to two palliative care units at our institution between June 2022 and May 2023 and received oral care multiple times before death. Oral hygiene was assessed using the Oral Health Assessment Tool (OHAT), and oral dryness was evaluated with an oral moisture checker. The Face Rating Scale (FRS) was assessed before and after professional oral care.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>During the week of death, the number of people who were able to speak and follow instructions decreased, while the number who used sedatives and oxygen increased. There was no significant difference in the degree of oral dryness before oral care between the time of hospitalisation and the week of death. However, oral dryness improved significantly after oral care at admission (before: 21.0 ± 8.3, after: 26.7 ± 3.2) and the week of death (before: 16.8 ± 8.4, after: 25.8 ± 3.7). There was no difference in the time taken for oral care or FRS scores at admission and the week of death.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Continuous oral care in patients with terminal cancer can prevent worsening oral hygiene and maintain moisture.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":12583,"journal":{"name":"Gerodontology","volume":"43 1","pages":"21-26"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2025-08-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144821194","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Annie Hendry, Sarah R. Baker, Gerry McKenna, Georgios Tsakos, Ivor Chestnutt, Craig Smith, Ciaran O'Neill, Alison Jenkins, Rachel Evans, Saif Sayeed Syed, Michelle Harvey, Anup Karki, Kirstie Moons, Fiona Sandom, Michael Donaldson, Caroline Lappin, Karen Shepherd, Lorraine Morgan, Paul R. Brocklehurst
Background
The oral health of many older adults residing in care homes is poor and service provision is limited. Role substitution has been suggested as a potential model to improve service provision in this context and describes the reallocation of tasks from a dentist to other members of the dental team.
Objectives
To undertake a theoretically informed process evaluation alongside a pragmatic cluster-randomised controlled trial to determine whether the use of Dental Therapists and Dental Nurses could improve the oral health of dependent older adults in care homes in the UK.
Materials and Methods
Semistructured interviews were held with 17 key stakeholders responsible for intervention delivery. Parallel observations were utilised during the intervention delivery phase in 22 homes. Both were conducted inductively using the main themes from the Promoting Action on Research Implementation in Health Services (PARIHS) framework to focus on intervention delivery and implementation.
Results
Stakeholders were receptive to the potential of using role substitution in this setting and saw this as a viable alternative to current practice. Partnership working was considered key, but was not always observed, and some care staff did not see oral health as their responsibility. The physical environment of the care home setting created a number of challenges, and sugary food and drinks were ubiquitous and formed an important part of the day-to-day structure within the home.
Conclusion
Although role substitution has the potential to meet the needs of dependent older people, a number of challenges exist in promoting oral health and delivering service provision.
{"title":"Using Role Substitution to Improve Oral Health in Care Homes: A Process Evaluation","authors":"Annie Hendry, Sarah R. Baker, Gerry McKenna, Georgios Tsakos, Ivor Chestnutt, Craig Smith, Ciaran O'Neill, Alison Jenkins, Rachel Evans, Saif Sayeed Syed, Michelle Harvey, Anup Karki, Kirstie Moons, Fiona Sandom, Michael Donaldson, Caroline Lappin, Karen Shepherd, Lorraine Morgan, Paul R. Brocklehurst","doi":"10.1111/ger.70012","DOIUrl":"10.1111/ger.70012","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Background</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>The oral health of many older adults residing in care homes is poor and service provision is limited. Role substitution has been suggested as a potential model to improve service provision in this context and describes the reallocation of tasks from a dentist to other members of the dental team.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Objectives</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>To undertake a theoretically informed process evaluation alongside a pragmatic cluster-randomised controlled trial to determine whether the use of Dental Therapists and Dental Nurses could improve the oral health of dependent older adults in care homes in the UK.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Materials and Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Semistructured interviews were held with 17 key stakeholders responsible for intervention delivery. Parallel observations were utilised during the intervention delivery phase in 22 homes. Both were conducted inductively using the main themes from the Promoting Action on Research Implementation in Health Services (PARIHS) framework to focus on intervention delivery and implementation.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Stakeholders were receptive to the potential of using role substitution in this setting and saw this as a viable alternative to current practice. Partnership working was considered key, but was not always observed, and some care staff did not see oral health as their responsibility. The physical environment of the care home setting created a number of challenges, and sugary food and drinks were ubiquitous and formed an important part of the day-to-day structure within the home.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Although role substitution has the potential to meet the needs of dependent older people, a number of challenges exist in promoting oral health and delivering service provision.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":12583,"journal":{"name":"Gerodontology","volume":"43 1","pages":"36-43"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2025-08-07","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12872973/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144794180","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Jae-hun Koh, Eun-Jae Choi, Jung-Ah Lee, Seon-Jip Kim, Hyun-Jae Cho
Objective
To examine the association between tooth loss and depressive symptoms in the Korean population using nationally representative data.
Background
Tooth loss negatively impacts oral function, aesthetics, and overall quality of life. It can lead to systemic issues, such as nutritional deficiencies, and is associated with mental health problems, including depressive symptoms. While the relationship between tooth loss and depressive symptoms has been explored in Western populations, research focusing on Asian populations, particularly Koreans, remains limited.
Materials and Methods
This cross-sectional study utilised data from the 6th Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES), including 9,166 adults aged 30 years and older. The primary variable was the number of remaining natural teeth, categorised as fewer than 12 or more. Stress and depressive symptoms were assessed using self-report questionnaires. Logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association between tooth loss and depressive symptoms after adjusting for sociodemographic, behavioural and health-related factors.
Results
Among the 9166 participants, 946 had fewer than 12 remaining natural teeth, and the remainder had 12 or more. Participants with fewer than 12 teeth showed significantly higher adjusted odds of experiencing depressive symptoms (aOR, adjusted odds ratio, 1.45; 95% CI, confidence interval, 1.12–1.87) and stress (aOR, 1.35; 95% CI, 1.04–1.74) than those with more teeth. These associations were particularly pronounced among women, older adults (≥ 65 years), and individuals requiring dentures.
Conclusion
This study demonstrates a significant association between having fewer remaining teeth and higher levels of stress and depressive symptoms, emphasising the importance of oral health in mental well-being. The relationship was particularly evident among women, younger adults and those with unmet prosthetic needs. These findings highlight the need to incorporate oral health considerations into public mental health strategies targeting high-risk populations.
{"title":"Association of Tooth Loss With Stress and Depressive Symptoms in Korean Adults: An Analysis Using Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES VI) (2013, 2015)","authors":"Jae-hun Koh, Eun-Jae Choi, Jung-Ah Lee, Seon-Jip Kim, Hyun-Jae Cho","doi":"10.1111/ger.70016","DOIUrl":"10.1111/ger.70016","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Objective</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>To examine the association between tooth loss and depressive symptoms in the Korean population using nationally representative data.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Background</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Tooth loss negatively impacts oral function, aesthetics, and overall quality of life. It can lead to systemic issues, such as nutritional deficiencies, and is associated with mental health problems, including depressive symptoms. While the relationship between tooth loss and depressive symptoms has been explored in Western populations, research focusing on Asian populations, particularly Koreans, remains limited.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Materials and Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>This cross-sectional study utilised data from the 6th Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES), including 9,166 adults aged 30 years and older. The primary variable was the number of remaining natural teeth, categorised as fewer than 12 or more. Stress and depressive symptoms were assessed using self-report questionnaires. Logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association between tooth loss and depressive symptoms after adjusting for sociodemographic, behavioural and health-related factors.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Among the 9166 participants, 946 had fewer than 12 remaining natural teeth, and the remainder had 12 or more. Participants with fewer than 12 teeth showed significantly higher adjusted odds of experiencing depressive symptoms (aOR, adjusted odds ratio, 1.45; 95% CI, confidence interval, 1.12–1.87) and stress (aOR, 1.35; 95% CI, 1.04–1.74) than those with more teeth. These associations were particularly pronounced among women, older adults (≥ 65 years), and individuals requiring dentures.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>This study demonstrates a significant association between having fewer remaining teeth and higher levels of stress and depressive symptoms, emphasising the importance of oral health in mental well-being. The relationship was particularly evident among women, younger adults and those with unmet prosthetic needs. These findings highlight the need to incorporate oral health considerations into public mental health strategies targeting high-risk populations.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":12583,"journal":{"name":"Gerodontology","volume":"43 1","pages":"61-68"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2025-08-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12872974/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144788811","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Madeleine Wan Yong Tan, Adrian Ujin Yap, M. Devi, Kelvin Wee Boon Koh
Objectives
This study investigated nurses' personal oral health behaviours, oral health knowledge, and attitudes and beliefs regarding the oral care of older adult inpatients in a community hospital. It also explored the associations between the type of nursing personnel and years of work experience with oral health attitudes and beliefs.
Background
Nurses can substantially impact inpatients' general and oral health outcomes through oral health assessments and oral care.
Methods
Nurses from a community hospital in Singapore completed a survey comprising four domains: (a) demographic characteristics and personal oral health behaviours, (b) oral health knowledge, (c) oral care practices, and (d) attitudes and beliefs toward oral care. Descriptive statistics were performed, and data were analysed with the Mann–Whitney U-test (α = 0.05).
Results
The final sample consisted of 152 participants (51 nursing assistants and 101 registered nurses), of which 62 had less than 5 years' work experience and the remainder had more than 5 years' experience. Knowledge gaps were observed in oral disease identification and implications. Most nurses perceived oral care as a high priority and believed it influenced clinical outcomes. Although nursing assistants felt they received adequate training in oral care, they were more likely than registered nurses to wait until patients developed problems before consulting a dentist.
Conclusion
There are gaps in nurses' oral health knowledge and dental referral practices for managing oral health issues in a community hospital setting. The findings underscore the importance of targeted oral health education to better integrate oral care for holistic rehabilitation of older inpatients.
{"title":"Oral Care for Post-Acute Inpatients: Exploring Nurses' Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices in the Community Hospital Setting","authors":"Madeleine Wan Yong Tan, Adrian Ujin Yap, M. Devi, Kelvin Wee Boon Koh","doi":"10.1111/ger.70014","DOIUrl":"10.1111/ger.70014","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Objectives</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>This study investigated nurses' personal oral health behaviours, oral health knowledge, and attitudes and beliefs regarding the oral care of older adult inpatients in a community hospital. It also explored the associations between the type of nursing personnel and years of work experience with oral health attitudes and beliefs.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Background</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Nurses can substantially impact inpatients' general and oral health outcomes through oral health assessments and oral care.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Nurses from a community hospital in Singapore completed a survey comprising four domains: (a) demographic characteristics and personal oral health behaviours, (b) oral health knowledge, (c) oral care practices, and (d) attitudes and beliefs toward oral care. Descriptive statistics were performed, and data were analysed with the Mann–Whitney <i>U</i>-test (<i>α</i> = 0.05).</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>The final sample consisted of 152 participants (51 nursing assistants and 101 registered nurses), of which 62 had less than 5 years' work experience and the remainder had more than 5 years' experience. Knowledge gaps were observed in oral disease identification and implications. Most nurses perceived oral care as a high priority and believed it influenced clinical outcomes. Although nursing assistants felt they received adequate training in oral care, they were more likely than registered nurses to wait until patients developed problems before consulting a dentist.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>There are gaps in nurses' oral health knowledge and dental referral practices for managing oral health issues in a community hospital setting. The findings underscore the importance of targeted oral health education to better integrate oral care for holistic rehabilitation of older inpatients.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":12583,"journal":{"name":"Gerodontology","volume":"43 1","pages":"44-53"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2025-08-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144788812","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
The rapid evolution of mobile healthcare technology holds promise for enhancing efficiency and care outcomes in nursing homes. However, accepting and effectively using such technologies poses challenges for caregivers, exacerbated by limited resources and various barriers. SmartJournal represents an innovative mobile healthcare application (app) designed specifically for enhancing oral healthcare in nursing home settings.
Objective
To investigate factors associated with intentions to use SmartJournal, focusing on the contributions of variables within the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) framework.
Materials and Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 85 nursing home caregivers in Norway utilising the SmartJournal app, followed by a survey assessing predictors of technology acceptance based on extended versions of the TAM framework. Factor analysis was utilised to identify and evaluate the underlying dimensions of the measured constructs and their relationships. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to examine the factors associated with intentions for future SmartJournal usage explained by the constructs in the chosen framework.
Results
The TAM variables perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use and image were revealed as predictors of intention for future SmartJournal usage in the present study sample. Together, these variables explained 41.8% of the variance, with perceived usefulness being the most influential factor, accounting for 19.6%.
Conclusion
This study identified perceived usefulness (PU) and perceived ease of use (PEOU) as key factors associated with nursing home caregivers' intention to use SmartJournal, providing insights for future implementation of the tool.
{"title":"Acceptance of a Mobile Oral Healthcare Tool Among Nursing Home Caregivers: A Cross-Sectional Study Using the Technology Acceptance Model","authors":"Enes Karamehmedovic, Elisabeth Lind Melbye","doi":"10.1111/ger.70011","DOIUrl":"10.1111/ger.70011","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Background</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>The rapid evolution of mobile healthcare technology holds promise for enhancing efficiency and care outcomes in nursing homes. However, accepting and effectively using such technologies poses challenges for caregivers, exacerbated by limited resources and various barriers. SmartJournal represents an innovative mobile healthcare application (app) designed specifically for enhancing oral healthcare in nursing home settings.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Objective</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>To investigate factors associated with intentions to use SmartJournal, focusing on the contributions of variables within the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) framework.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Materials and Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>A cross-sectional study was conducted among 85 nursing home caregivers in Norway utilising the SmartJournal app, followed by a survey assessing predictors of technology acceptance based on extended versions of the TAM framework. Factor analysis was utilised to identify and evaluate the underlying dimensions of the measured constructs and their relationships. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to examine the factors associated with intentions for future SmartJournal usage explained by the constructs in the chosen framework.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>The TAM variables perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use and image were revealed as predictors of intention for future SmartJournal usage in the present study sample. Together, these variables explained 41.8% of the variance, with perceived usefulness being the most influential factor, accounting for 19.6%.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>This study identified perceived usefulness (PU) and perceived ease of use (PEOU) as key factors associated with nursing home caregivers' intention to use SmartJournal, providing insights for future implementation of the tool.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":12583,"journal":{"name":"Gerodontology","volume":"43 1","pages":"27-35"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2025-07-24","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12872972/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144698316","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) geriatric oral care modules with traditional teaching methods for training nurses, nursing assistants (NAs), and residents in a residential aged care facility (RACF).
Background
VR/AR geriatric oral care modules have been used to enhance the knowledge, attitudes, and self-efficacy of nursing students and NAs regarding geriatric oral health.
Materials and Methods
This study employed a quasi-experimental design. The experimental group, consisting of nurses and NAs, received training through VR/AR geriatric oral care modules, whereas the control group attended a traditional 2-h lecture on oral care. The effectiveness of the training in terms of knowledge, attitudes, and self-efficacy related to geriatric oral care among nurses and NAs was analysed using generalised estimating equations.
Results
Three months after the training, the oral care attitude scores of the nurses and NAs in the experimental group (26.0 ± 1.3) were significantly higher than those in the control group (23.5 ± 2.4, β = −3.7). The two training methods showed similar effects on knowledge and self-efficacy immediately after the training and 3 months later. However, no improvement in oral function was observed in residents of either group at the three-month follow-up.
Conclusion
Training with VR/AR modules for geriatric oral care can significantly enhance the attitudes of nurses and NAs 3 months after training in an RACF. It is recommended that such training be conducted regularly for nurses and NAs to further evaluate its effectiveness.
{"title":"Effectiveness of Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality Training Modules for Geriatric Oral Care in a Residential Aged Care Facility: A Quasi-Experimental Study","authors":"Kuei-Hsiang Huang, Pei-Chen Lin, Hsiu-Fen Hsieh, Yi-Ching Lin, Hsiao-Lin Huang, Shu-Fen Wung, Pei-Chao Lin","doi":"10.1111/ger.70007","DOIUrl":"10.1111/ger.70007","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Objectives</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) geriatric oral care modules with traditional teaching methods for training nurses, nursing assistants (NAs), and residents in a residential aged care facility (RACF).</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Background</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>VR/AR geriatric oral care modules have been used to enhance the knowledge, attitudes, and self-efficacy of nursing students and NAs regarding geriatric oral health.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Materials and Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>This study employed a quasi-experimental design. The experimental group, consisting of nurses and NAs, received training through VR/AR geriatric oral care modules, whereas the control group attended a traditional 2-h lecture on oral care. The effectiveness of the training in terms of knowledge, attitudes, and self-efficacy related to geriatric oral care among nurses and NAs was analysed using generalised estimating equations.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Three months after the training, the oral care attitude scores of the nurses and NAs in the experimental group (26.0 ± 1.3) were significantly higher than those in the control group (23.5 ± 2.4, <i>β</i> = −3.7). The two training methods showed similar effects on knowledge and self-efficacy immediately after the training and 3 months later. However, no improvement in oral function was observed in residents of either group at the three-month follow-up.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Training with VR/AR modules for geriatric oral care can significantly enhance the attitudes of nurses and NAs 3 months after training in an RACF. It is recommended that such training be conducted regularly for nurses and NAs to further evaluate its effectiveness.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":12583,"journal":{"name":"Gerodontology","volume":"43 1","pages":"11-20"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2025-07-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144658912","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
To investigate the associations among tooth loss, denture use and malnutrition in Chinese older adults, and to identify malnutrition risk factors by dentition status.
Background
Malnutrition affects 7.7% of older adults in China and is associated with tooth loss, which impairs chewing. Dentures are commonly used to mitigate this, but their influence on malnutrition remains unclear.
Materials and Methods
A cross-sectional analysis of 13,234 individuals aged 60 and older from the 8th wave of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) was conducted. Data on tooth loss, denture use, malnutrition and socio-demographic factors were collected. Modified Poisson regression was used to calculate prevalence ratios (PRs) and confidence intervals (CIs) adjusted.
Results
Malnutrition was more common among partially dentate older women without dentures (APR 1.75, 95% CI 1.29–2.37), and those with edentulism, both with dentures (APR 1.61, 95% CI 1.18–2.20) and without dentures (APR 1.93, 95% CI 1.41–2.64). Denture use was associated with a lower malnutrition risk in partially dentate (APR 0.80, 95% CI 0.70–0.91) and edentulous older adults (APR 0.79, 95% CI 0.70–0.80).
Conclusions
Denture use is associated with a lower malnutrition risk, especially in women, though it may not fully restore nutritional status. Strategies to prevent tooth loss and promote denture use are vital for reducing malnutrition in older adults.
目的：探讨中国老年人牙齿脱落、义齿使用与营养不良的关系，并根据牙列状况确定营养不良的危险因素。背景：营养不良影响中国7.7%的老年人，并与牙齿脱落有关，从而影响咀嚼。假牙通常用于缓解这种情况，但它们对营养不良的影响尚不清楚。材料与方法：对第8期中国健康寿命纵向调查（CLHLS）中13234名60岁及以上的老年人进行横断面分析。收集有关牙齿脱落、假牙使用、营养不良和社会人口因素的数据。采用修正泊松回归计算患病率比（pr）和调整后的置信区间（ci）。结果：无义齿的老年女性营养不良发生率较高（APR 1.75, 95% CI 1.29-2.37），有全牙症的老年女性营养不良发生率较高，有义齿的老年女性营养不良发生率为1.61,95% CI 1.18-2.20)，有义齿的老年女性营养不良发生率为1.93,95% CI 1.41-2.64。假牙使用与部分有齿老年人（APR 0.80, 95% CI 0.70-0.91）和无牙老年人（APR 0.79, 95% CI 0.70-0.80）营养不良风险较低相关。结论：假牙的使用与较低的营养不良风险相关，特别是在女性中，尽管它可能不能完全恢复营养状态。预防牙齿脱落和促进假牙使用的策略对于减少老年人营养不良至关重要。
{"title":"Tooth Loss, Denture Use and Malnutrition in the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS)","authors":"Xiaowen Ma, Huiwen Zeng, Yajin Li, Yue Yang","doi":"10.1111/ger.70006","DOIUrl":"10.1111/ger.70006","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Objectives</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>To investigate the associations among tooth loss, denture use and malnutrition in Chinese older adults, and to identify malnutrition risk factors by dentition status.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Background</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Malnutrition affects 7.7% of older adults in China and is associated with tooth loss, which impairs chewing. Dentures are commonly used to mitigate this, but their influence on malnutrition remains unclear.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Materials and Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>A cross-sectional analysis of 13,234 individuals aged 60 and older from the 8th wave of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) was conducted. Data on tooth loss, denture use, malnutrition and socio-demographic factors were collected. Modified Poisson regression was used to calculate prevalence ratios (PRs) and confidence intervals (CIs) adjusted.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Malnutrition was more common among partially dentate older women without dentures (APR 1.75, 95% CI 1.29–2.37), and those with edentulism, both with dentures (APR 1.61, 95% CI 1.18–2.20) and without dentures (APR 1.93, 95% CI 1.41–2.64). Denture use was associated with a lower malnutrition risk in partially dentate (APR 0.80, 95% CI 0.70–0.91) and edentulous older adults (APR 0.79, 95% CI 0.70–0.80).</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusions</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Denture use is associated with a lower malnutrition risk, especially in women, though it may not fully restore nutritional status. Strategies to prevent tooth loss and promote denture use are vital for reducing malnutrition in older adults.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":12583,"journal":{"name":"Gerodontology","volume":"42 4","pages":"611-619"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2025-07-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144636817","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Self-administered tongue exercises (TEs) are proposed as an effective, low-cost and convenient intervention for improving maximum tongue strength and endurance. However, age-related factors make self-administered TEs more challenging for older individuals.
Objective
This study aimed to evaluate the effects of self-administered TEs on maximum tongue strength and endurance in older individuals.
Material and Methods
Seventy-two healthy volunteers, both young and older groups, were randomly allocated to three self-administered TE groups: tongue wrap, tongue corner and tongue paint. Maximum tongue strength and tongue endurance were assessed at baseline (T0) and after 4 weeks of training (T1) using the Iowa Oral Performance Instrument (IOPI). The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare pre- and post-intervention outcomes within groups, and the Kruskal–Wallis test was used to compare gains among groups.
Results
After 4 weeks of self-administered TEs, the average gains in maximum tongue strength and endurance did not differ significantly between young and older participants. The gains in maximum tongue strength for young and older participants were as follows: tongue wrap (7.7 vs. 3.3 kPa, p = 0.2), tongue corner (4.0 vs. 1.7 kPa, p = 0.6) and tongue paint (3.5 vs. 3.7 kPa, p = 1.0). For tongue endurance, young and older participants gained 3.9 vs. 13.0 s (p = 0.2), 1.3 vs. 11.0 s (p = 0.1) and 3.8 vs. −0.2 s (p = 0.5), respectively. While the tongue paint exercise resulted in the highest gains in maximum tongue strength, and the tongue wrap exercise showed the greatest improvement in tongue endurance among older adults, these differences were not statistically significant.
Conclusion
Four weeks of self-administered TEs had a positive impact on tongue strength and endurance in older individuals. Although our findings are most compatible with no important difference among exercise types in the older, notable patterns suggest potential benefits. Future studies should explore optimal exercise intensity and duration to maximise effectiveness.
{"title":"The Effect of Different Self-Administered Tongue Exercises on Tongue Strength and Endurance in Older Adults","authors":"Thunchanok Suppapatpong, Atiphan Pimkhaokham, Boosana Kaboosaya","doi":"10.1111/ger.70005","DOIUrl":"10.1111/ger.70005","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Background</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Self-administered tongue exercises (TEs) are proposed as an effective, low-cost and convenient intervention for improving maximum tongue strength and endurance. However, age-related factors make self-administered TEs more challenging for older individuals.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Objective</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>This study aimed to evaluate the effects of self-administered TEs on maximum tongue strength and endurance in older individuals.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Material and Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Seventy-two healthy volunteers, both young and older groups, were randomly allocated to three self-administered TE groups: tongue wrap, tongue corner and tongue paint. Maximum tongue strength and tongue endurance were assessed at baseline (T0) and after 4 weeks of training (T1) using the Iowa Oral Performance Instrument (IOPI). The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare pre- and post-intervention outcomes within groups, and the Kruskal–Wallis test was used to compare gains among groups.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>After 4 weeks of self-administered TEs, the average gains in maximum tongue strength and endurance did not differ significantly between young and older participants. The gains in maximum tongue strength for young and older participants were as follows: tongue wrap (7.7 vs. 3.3 kPa, <i>p</i> = 0.2), tongue corner (4.0 vs. 1.7 kPa, <i>p</i> = 0.6) and tongue paint (3.5 vs. 3.7 kPa, <i>p</i> = 1.0). For tongue endurance, young and older participants gained 3.9 vs. 13.0 s (<i>p</i> = 0.2), 1.3 vs. 11.0 s (<i>p</i> = 0.1) and 3.8 vs. −0.2 s (<i>p</i> = 0.5), respectively. While the tongue paint exercise resulted in the highest gains in maximum tongue strength, and the tongue wrap exercise showed the greatest improvement in tongue endurance among older adults, these differences were not statistically significant.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Four weeks of self-administered TEs had a positive impact on tongue strength and endurance in older individuals. Although our findings are most compatible with no important difference among exercise types in the older, notable patterns suggest potential benefits. Future studies should explore optimal exercise intensity and duration to maximise effectiveness.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":12583,"journal":{"name":"Gerodontology","volume":"42 4","pages":"602-610"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2025-07-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144600124","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
To describe age-group differences in oral function in middle-aged and older Japanese adults.
Background
To facilitate oral function management, it is essential research spanning a wider age range.
Materials and Methods
We conducted a secondary analysis of data in 2023 from two distinct populations. The Otassha Study included community-dwelling adults aged ≥ 65 years in Tokyo. The second sample consisted of middle-aged workers aged ≥ 40 years employed at municipal offices in Fukuoka. Survey items included tongue coating index, mucosal wetness, occlusal force, oral diadochokinesis, tongue pressure, masticatory function, swallowing function and the prevalence of oral hypofunction. Trend tests and binary logistic regression analysis were conducted. The dependent variable was the presence of oral hypofunction, and the independent variable was the age group.
Results
Our analysis included 645 participants (275 men and 370 women, aged 40–89 years). The prevalence of oral hypofunction and low oral function in six elements, except mucosal wetness, showed a significant linear association by age group. The prevalence of oral hypofunction was higher in the 80s (adjusted odds ratio: 3.4, 95% confidence interval: 1.4–8.3) than in the reference category (60s).
Conclusion
Expanding middle-aged participant data and conducting longitudinal studies are essential for understanding age-related changes in oral function. These efforts will help inform effective strategies to address oral functional decline.
{"title":"Descriptive Epidemiology of Oral Function in Middle-Aged and Older Japanese Individuals","authors":"Maki Shirobe, Masanori Iwasaki, Kentaro Igarashi, Keiko Motokawa, Ayako Edahiro, Shiho Morishita, Chiaki Matsubara, Tatsunosuke Gomi, Manami Ejiri, Hisashi Kawai, Maki Inoue, Shino Yamaguchi, Ayaka Isobe, Hisako Hikiji, Tatsuji Nishihara, Hiroyuki Sasai, Kazushige Ihara, Yoshinori Fujiwara, Shuichi Obuchi, Hirohiko Hirano","doi":"10.1111/ger.70003","DOIUrl":"10.1111/ger.70003","url":null,"abstract":"<div>\u0000 \u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Objective</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>To describe age-group differences in oral function in middle-aged and older Japanese adults.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Background</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>To facilitate oral function management, it is essential research spanning a wider age range.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Materials and Methods</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>We conducted a secondary analysis of data in 2023 from two distinct populations. The Otassha Study included community-dwelling adults aged ≥ 65 years in Tokyo. The second sample consisted of middle-aged workers aged ≥ 40 years employed at municipal offices in Fukuoka. Survey items included tongue coating index, mucosal wetness, occlusal force, oral diadochokinesis, tongue pressure, masticatory function, swallowing function and the prevalence of oral hypofunction. Trend tests and binary logistic regression analysis were conducted. The dependent variable was the presence of oral hypofunction, and the independent variable was the age group.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Results</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Our analysis included 645 participants (275 men and 370 women, aged 40–89 years). The prevalence of oral hypofunction and low oral function in six elements, except mucosal wetness, showed a significant linear association by age group. The prevalence of oral hypofunction was higher in the 80s (adjusted odds ratio: 3.4, 95% confidence interval: 1.4–8.3) than in the reference category (60s).</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 \u0000 <section>\u0000 \u0000 <h3> Conclusion</h3>\u0000 \u0000 <p>Expanding middle-aged participant data and conducting longitudinal studies are essential for understanding age-related changes in oral function. These efforts will help inform effective strategies to address oral functional decline.</p>\u0000 </section>\u0000 </div>","PeriodicalId":12583,"journal":{"name":"Gerodontology","volume":"42 4","pages":"580-590"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2025-07-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144539954","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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