The importance of oral health in older Australians

A dentist wearing a mask interacts with a smiling elderly man in a dental chair. Background includes dental health icons such as a toothbrush and a smiling mouth.

Age is just a number, but when it comes to dental health, those numbers can add up to some serious consequences. As we get older, our teeth and gums require even more attention and care to maintain a healthy smile. While it may be tempting to neglect regular dental check-ups and care, overlooking the importance of dental health can lead to long term issues for your oral and overall health. From maintaining proper nutrition to preventing gum disease and tooth decay, taking care of your teeth is essential for a happy and healthy life.

So, grab your floss and settle in, because we’re diving into the importance of dental health for older Australians and why it’s never too late to start giving your pearly whites the TLC they deserve.

The connection between oral health and overall health

You may not realise it, but oral health can have a huge impact on your overall health and wellbeing. Having poor oral health can affect your ability to eat, speak or socialise. In fact, it’s even been linked to a variety of systemic conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. By prioritising dental health, older Australians can help prevent the spread of bacteria and infections from the mouth to other parts of the body, ultimately reducing the risk of developing these serious health conditions.

What contributes to poor oral hygiene?

Poor oral hygiene is a common issue that affects many older Australians. There are several factors that can contribute to poor oral health. Understanding these factors can help prevent or address the effects effectively.

Some of the main contributing factors to poor oral hygiene are:

  • Consumption or sugar, tobacco and alcohol
  • A lack of good oral hygiene and regular dental check ups
  • A lack of fluoridation in some water supplies
  • Access and availability of services including long wait periods and affordable dental care

Addressing the factors by reducing sugar and alcohol consumption and maintaining good oral hygiene can help you protect your teeth and gums and maintain optimal oral health.

How nutrition impacts your oral health

Nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining good oral health. The foods we eat directly impact the health of our teeth and gums. A diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants can help strengthen our teeth and fend off cavities. On the other hand, a diet high in sugar and processed foods can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Consuming plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can provide essential nutrients that support overall oral health. It’s also important to stay hydrated and limiting snacking between meals can help prevent bacteria from building up.

Preventing pain and discomfort

Conditions such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth sensitivity can not only be painful but also greatly impact your quality of life by making it difficult to eat, speak, and carry out daily activities. By taking proactive steps, such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash, you can help prevent unnecessary oral pain and discomfort. This can improve your overall wellbeing and allow you to enjoy a better quality of life.

How can I protect my oral health long term?

Protecting your oral health is crucial for maintaining a healthy smile and overall wellbeing. One of the most important habits you can adopt is to brush your teeth twice a day with a small soft brush. Brushing helps remove plaque and food particles that can lead to cavities and gum disease. It’s also a good idea to choose healthy, low sugar foods and drinks to prevent tooth decay and drink plenty of water throughout the day which helps wash away food particles and bacteria that can harm your teeth and gums.

Another key component of protecting your oral health is to make an appointment for a dental check-up. Regular dental visits allow your dentist to detect and treat any potential issues early before they become more serious. Prevention is key when it comes to good oral health, so be sure to make it a priority in your daily routine.

Financial considerations

We all know that dental treatments can be expensive. However, by investing in dental health now and focusing on preventative measures such as regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, you can lower the risk of needing costly procedures down the line. Catching issues early through routine check-ups, means that you can address minor concerns before they develop into more serious problems that require expensive treatments. In this way, prioritising oral health can be a proactive approach to managing healthcare costs as an older Australian.

Ultimately, the financial considerations of dental health for older Australians underscore the importance of making oral care a priority. By investing in preventive measures and seeking regular dental care, you can not only preserve your oral health but also potentially save money in the long run. Prioritising oral health is an investment that can benefit both financial security and overall wellbeing in later life.

Remember, it’s always important to consult a dental professional for oral health recommendations tailored to your individual needs. Your dentist can provide guidance on the best oral hygiene practices, including the use of fluoride toothpaste, flossing techniques, and the importance of regular dental cleanings.

So, remember to floss, brush, and visit your dentist regularly – your body will thank you!

Validated assessment tools

Validated assessment tools

Validated assessment tools are an important aspect of providing quality care for individuals receiving home care services. These tools are used to assess the needs, abilities, and functional status of home care recipients, and to monitor changes over time.

Mini Nutritional Assessment

The Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA), is a validated tool used to assess the nutritional status of senior adults. It is designed to be a simple, easy-to-use, and efficient tool for identifying risk of malnutrition.


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Norton Pressure Sore Risk-Assessment Scale Sorting System

The Norton Scoring System, is a validated tool used to assess the pressure ulcer risk in senior adults and other adults who are bedridden or immobile. The Norton Scoring System can be used to identify individuals at risk of pressure ulcer development and to monitor changes in risk over time.


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Tools for assessing and monitoring faecal incontinence

The Revised Faecal Incontinence Scale (RFIS), is a validated assessment tool used to assess the severity and impact of fecal incontinence in adults. The RFIS is designed to be simple and effective, and can be completed by a trained healthcare professional.


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Revised Urinary Incontinence Scale

The Revised Urinary Incontinence Scale (RUIS) is a validated tool to assess the severity and impact of urinary incontinence in adults. The RUIS consists of 10 items that assess the frequency, amount, and impact of urinary incontinence, as well as the patient's level of concern related to incontinence. Each item is scored on a scale from 0 to 3, with higher scores indicating a greater severity and impact of urinary incontinence.


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Waterlow pressure area risk assessment

The Waterlow pressure area risk assessment tool is used to evaluate the potential risk for pressure ulcer development in senior adults and immobile individuals. The assessment evaluates several factors, including mobility, nutrition, skin condition, activity, and medical history, and assigns a score based on these factors, with higher scores indicating a higher risk of pressure ulcer development.


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Validated assessment tools can be used to identify areas of need and to assist in the development of care plans. They can also be used to monitor changes over time and to evaluate the effectiveness of support services.

These valuable tools are not diagnostic tools, if risk is suspected it should be clinically evaluated and treated by specialists.

Validated assessment tools are an essential for home care recipients to ensure they are receiving the care they need to maintain their independence and quality of life.

Medication management

Medication management

Medication management is an important aspect of care in Home Care. Ensuring you receive precise medications and dosages at the right time is crucial for your health and well-being. It can also be a complex and time-consuming task as different medications can create a repetitive schedule. Below, we will dive further into the best practices for managing medications at home.

Proper Documentation:

It is important to have a complete and accurate record of all medications, including the name, dosage, frequency, and any step-by-step instructions. This information should be kept in a Medication Administration Record (MAR), which should be updated whenever there are changes your medication regimen.

Medication Administration:

As a consumer you can self-administer medications. If you are paying someone to administer medication, it should be a nurse, and prompting can be done with someone with a medication competency.  It is best practice to have nurses who are familiar with your regimens and any potential interactions or side effects.

Medications should be administered at the correct time with the right dosage and monitor your wellbeing post consumption. If someone is administering your medication you will require a medication chart to be signed at each administration. For this reason, unless you have a coordinator that can provide a medication chart, Trilogy Care does not engage in medication administration.

Communication:

Effective communication is essential for safe medication management. It is best to communicate your needs and any issues or changes about your medication regime, with your home care provider, GP and authorised representatives.

Medication Storage:

Medications should be stored in a secure location, away from light and moisture, at the correct temperature. Regularly check the expiration dates of all medications and dispose of any that have expired. For example, return to your local pharmacy, who provide a free and convenient way to dispose of your unwanted medicines responsibly.

Medication Errors:

Medication errors can occur when the wrong medication has been consumed, the wrong dosage, taken at the wrong time. To prevent errors, double-check the MAR and the medication before administering, and report any errors to your home care provider.

Safety Measures:

To ensure the safe handling and administration of medications, it is best to follow instructions from your GP. This may include the use of medication carts, barcode scanning systems, and other technology to help prevent errors.

By following these best practices, your provider can help ensure that you receive the correct medications at the right time and in the right dosage, which can improve your health and well-being.

If you have any further questions, contact Trilogy Care today on 1300 459 190.

The difference between a geriatrician and a GP

Who is a geriatrician

As Australian's age, their care needs may become more complex and require specialist treatment. It is important for older Australian's to recognise what the best treatment is for them, so they can continue to live healthily and independently. A question we often receive is "what do Geriatricians do?" This article will break down the differences between Geriatricians and General Practitioners (GPs).

What does a GP do?

GPs treat a wide range of mild, chronic, and acute medical conditions. They will carry out comprehensive medical assessments, contribute to care plans and collaborate with pharmacists on medication management, and provide recommendations on whether extra is required.

What is a Geriatrician?

So what do Geriatricians do exactly? A Geriatrician is a doctor who provides care for older people. Geriatricians are experts at treating multiple conditions and have had specialist training in geriatric medicine. They can assist with integrating older Australians care if dealing with multiple complex health issues.

What do Geriatricians treat?

Some older adults have complex health needs. They might have many medical problems and use different types of medicine. They are also more likely to be frail, to have falls and to have conditions like dementia or heart disease.

In many cases, they act as the primary care for an elderly individual and the primary doctor who knows the overall medical history, current conditions, treatments, and medication list for a patient.

Most Geriatricians have expertise in dealing with people who have multiple conditions. However some of them specialise in particular areas and treating certain conditions, including dementia.

Geriatricians help manage (but not limited to):

  • Dementia and other cognitive problems
  • Problems with mobility and frailty
  • Incontinence
  • Nutrition
  • Medicines, as well as other medical issues

A Geriatrician will normally conduct a comprehensive assessment to assess your physical, mental, and social situation so they can provide the best type of care.

Benefits of Home Visiting Geriatricians

Geriatricians work in hospitals, clinics, residential aged care facilities, as well as home visits for clients depending on the type of care required.

There are many benefits of home visits for seniors:

  • Comfort: The primary benefit of home care is that loved ones can stay at home for longer, ultimately the place that is the most comfortable and familiar. This allows seniors to use their own amenities, sleep in their own bed, and continue their daily routines. Residing in a supportive, familiar care environment can be beneficial for clients receiving care especially for those suffering from progressive conditions like dementia.
  • Personalised care: Rather than having to adjust and abide to scheduling along with routines in a care facility. A home care visit allows a geriatrician to provide a flexible home care plan to fully suite a senior Australian's needs.
  • Independence: Staying at home for longer while receiving care can maintain a sense of independence for seniors. Depending on the type and duration of care required on a day-to-day basis, allowing clients to feel independent from their carer and family members is important to seniors.

Availability between Geriatricians and GPs

GPs are more accessible across Australia through telehealth, websites, emails, and even online platforms if preferred.

As Geriatricians are a specialist doctor, they are less available and frequent, even more so in rural and remote areas. They can be accessed similarly to GPs, who can also refer Geriatricians if specialist treatment is required to take care of a loved one's complex health issue. We hope this article has helped you answer the question, "what do Geriatricians do?"

For more information regarding Home Care, go to our resources page.

For more information on the Home Care Package program, go to our FAQs.

What is the Transition Care Program?

Transition Care Program

About the program

The Transition Care Program (TCP) is designed to help older people recuperate after a hospital stay to help you regain functional independence confidence. You can access TCP even if you have a Home Care Package (HCP) or Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) services in place.

Orthopedic Doctor and Senior Patient with Walker at Nursing Home

Lasting up to 12 weeks, the program is funded to provide a range of tailored supports and can include:

  • Personal care.
  • Nursing support.
  • Allied health care: occupational therapy, physiotherapy, dietetics, podiatry, social activities and social work.
  • Case management.

These services can take place in your home, or a residential respite facility whilst any aids and equipment are being arranged for you to safely return home. A transition care coordinator will be appointed to help you set goals to get the best possible outcome.

What happens to my HCP during the program?

Although your Home Care Package will be 'on hold', you will keep accumulating your full subsidy (including any supplements) for the first 28 days.

Is there a cost for TCP?

Yes, there are some costs to receive TCP which will be discussed with you at the time of your assessment in hospital.

During a hospital stay, if you've been assessed as eligible for the Transition Care Program, it's important to inform your case manager so they can continue to support you while you receive the necessary care. They will also ensure you continue to accumulate your HCP funding so it is available to you when the program ends.

home visit care nurse

Why TCP is important?

This Transition Care Program assists people stay in their homes for longer. Avoiding the need for longer-term care, and delays seniors Australians moving into an Aged Care Home for as long as possible. The TCP helps senior Australians get back on their feet after a hospital stay.

Am I eligible for TCP?

To be eligible for the Transition Care Program, a person must undergo an ACAT assessment. Home Care Package recipients have already undergone this assessment. They may be eligible if it is an older person and:

  • Have been told they are ready to leave the hospital.
  • a patient in a hospital (public or private) including people receiving hospital services in-home.
  • the person would benefit from receiving TCP services for a short period of time.

A person may also be eligible if the person is to receive care or support services in their own home, they will have 48 hours from their date of discharge from hospital, to enter care.

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Contact Trilogy Care today on 1300 459 190 or info@trilogycare.com.au for information on alternative care solutions while receiving Home Care Package funding.

How to recognise deterioration?

Deterioration

As an aged care worker or client, it is important to understand and recognise the signs of deterioration in physical and mental health. This ensures that better care can be provided. This article will provide an overview on how to recognise the signs, and how to manage deterioration in health.

What is Deterioration?

When a decline in someone's physical or mental health occurs, it is called deterioration. There are specific signs that someone may display which can help you identify if a person's condition is worsening.

They can be:

  • Loss of appetite.
  • Reduced intake of food and drink.
  • Pass in and out of consciousness.
  • Experience increased periods of sleep and require rests more often.
  • Decreased movement.
  • Become bed bound.
  • Experience difficulty swallowing or breathing.
  • Become increasingly disorientated.

What do I Need to Do?

As a carer, friend, or family member to a client of Trilogy Care it is important and necessary to report to us if you notice any of the following:

  • Decrease in activity levels.
  • The client has higher care needs than normal, and their health deteriorates quickly.
  • Weight loss/The client is not putting on weight.
  • An emergency transfer to hospital occurs.
  • The client's family or partner require increased support and assistance in caring for them.
  • The client's experience's a decline in their health and there is no improvement, or it worsens.
  • You are unable to wake them.
  • The client is disorientated in a manner that is unusual to them.

Care workers are often the first to recognise changes in their clients because of their exposure to them. There are many chronic conditions that people live with every day, however, are not necessarily life threatening (Like Dementia and Diabetes). For clients with these conditions, the end-of-life phase can last months or even years. It is especially important to escalate any concerns to your senior staff and Trilogy Care.

How do I Report to Trilogy Care?

Reporting a change in condition, an incident or accident is critical in ensuring Trilogy Care can continue to safely support a client's care needs and manage their home care package effectively. An incident or accident may relate to an event that has occurred whilst receiving services or not.

Visit our website and press on the 'Incidents' tab at the top of the page. This will take you to our incident reporting form. From here fill out the form, and the Care Management Team will contact the client and their representative (if applicable) to discuss the matter and determine the most appropriate course of action.

What do we do with this information?

With this information, here is what can be done to assist your client or family member:

  • Discuss the situation with the client (where possible) and their family.
  • Perform a Care Review to determine any changed or new care needs.
  • Manage their symptoms and create or amend their Pain Management Plan.
  • Provide advice and support to the client and their family.
  • Refer the client and their family to the appropriate support services.
  • Discuss the clients wishes regarding their care and treatment to ensure their wishes are met.

Stay up-to-date on all news regarding Home Care Packages with Trilogy Care's Facebook. Trilogy Care provide a variety of resources to assist you with your Home Care Package needs, and continue living healthy, supported, and independent lives. To find out more visit our website or email: info@trilogycare.com.au.