Pharmacies as key points of support for oral hygiene in older people

Oral oral health in older adults is is a healthcare priority, as aging, chronic diseases, and medications can increase the risk of infections and other health issues. In the pharmacy, it is best to follow protocols that take into account physical limitations, the use of dentures, and other conditions before recommending oral hygiene products. Of course, it is essential to refer patients to a dentist whenever warning signs appear to prevent complications.

Why oral health in older adults is a health priority

In older adults, oral hygiene is critical precisely because of the physiological changes associated with aging. Care must be tailored to each person’s actual needs and supported by various healthcare professionals, including pharmacy staff, who can guide and educate people on their routine outside the clinic. 

For people with severe dependency, personal hygiene is usually handled by caregivers. The The lack of knowledge about oral hygiene, among both patients and caregivers, highlights the importance of monitoring and providing ongoing information to ensure that older adults maintain a healthy mouth. 

Risks associated with poor oral hygiene

When oral hygiene is inadequate, it is common to develop respiratory infections if oral bacteria reach the lower respiratory tract, poorly controlled diabetes due to the impact of oral inflammation on blood sugar balance, as well as cardiovascular problems stemming from the link between gum inflammation and heart health. 

In addition to this, it is important to note that poor oral hygiene also affects people’s quality of life: it causes pain, makes chewing and swallowing difficult, can lead to malnutrition, and even affect communication, self-esteem, and social life. 

Factors that make oral hygiene difficult for older adults

The Role of Pharmacies in Oral Hygiene for Older Adults

Pharmacists are healthcare professionals who are easily accessible to the public. Their proximity makes pharmacies a key location for providing preventive services that help reduce the incidence of oral health complications: education on oral hygiene, guidance on appropriate products, detection of early signs of oral health problems and, if necessary, referrals to specialists. 

1. Personalized education and guidance

It is important to provide older adults clear and easy-to-understand information on how to brush their teeth properly, always taking into account their age, mobility, and health status. It is also important to explain which products can help them improve the results and benefits of maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine for their overall health. 

2. Review of Prescribed Medications

Older adults often take medication on a regular basis and purchase their drugs from the same pharmacy. By reviewing the prescription, pharmacists can anticipate oral health issues, such as dry mouth, and offer advice or products that help reduce side effects before they cause discomfort. 

3. Screening and referral to specialists

Whether through observation or because older adults share their concerns about new symptoms—such as swollen gums, sores, or persistent discomfort—the pharmacy can recommend specific products to help improve oral hygiene or a visit to the dentist as soon as possible to receive treatment before the situation worsens. 

Pharmacy Protocols

To structure the pharmaceutical intervention regarding oral hygiene for older adults, the following phases could be proposed: initial assessment, education, and follow-up. Maintaining a brief medical history for each person at the pharmacy—always in compliance with current data protection regulations—is very useful, as is scheduling reminders to facilitate follow-up. 

1. Initial assessment 

In addition to reviewing their prescription medications, you can take the opportunity to ask them during the pickup if they’re experiencing any pain or if they’ve noticed bleeding gums or a dry mouth recently. It’s also helpful find out if they wear dentures and if they know the steps they need to follow for proper cleaning, in addition to their brushing habits. 

2. Customized educational sessions

Depending on the person's needs or any issues identified, the pharmacist can explain how to brush correctly and use the dental accessories that are most appropriate for each case, recommend additional products or others that make their hygiene routine easier, as well as inform them about possible warning signs. 

3. Ongoing monitoring

During subsequent visits to the pharmacy, you can ask if there have been any changes in their routine, how they are getting along with the new oral hygiene products, or if they have noticed any side effects from medications in their mouth. It is always important to ensure that recommendations are being followed and to adjust them as needed.