Caring for Geriatric Patients in Hygiene Practice
Adapt hygiene care for older adults addressing medication effects, dexterity, and systemic health considerations.
The Aging Patient's Needs
Older adults present a unique combination of medication effects, reduced dexterity, and systemic health considerations. Tailored hygiene care addresses these without reducing the patient to their age.
Key Considerations
- Assess medication-induced dry mouth and its caries risk.
- Adapt home-care recommendations for reduced dexterity.
- Coordinate with medical providers on systemic conditions.
Dignity and Communication
Communicate directly with the patient, not only an accompanying caregiver, unless the patient prefers otherwise. Preserving dignity is part of quality care.
Practical Takeaway
Assess dry mouth and dexterity, coordinate with medical providers, and communicate directly with the patient to preserve dignity while adapting care.
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