Abstract
Oral health contributes to general health, cognition, communication, nutrition, and quality of life for older adults. Periodontal (gum) disease is associated with oral pain and chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, diabetes, and respiratory disease. Health disparities, social determinants of oral health, and barriers to accessing services will be discussed. Interprofessional collaboration and occupational therapy’s role in assessing and improving oral cares will be presented.