How Proper Oral Health Can Improve Elder Care near Braselton, GA

There are numerous things that go into proper elder care. Experience is one of the most important aspects of an elderly health care provider, whether it’s a visiting nurse, a home care aide, or a family member looking after a loved one.

Getting proper oral health care is also important for many reasons. Many elderly individuals may rely on dentures or have other oral health related problems that go undetected for years. They may also avoid visiting the dentist out of a concern over pain, cost, and other factors.

Yet getting proper oral health care can actually have a direct impact and positive effect on their health as a whole. Research is shown that gum disease, certain bacteria that grow and are fostered in the mouth, can actually travel from open sores in the gums and other issues in the mouth to the heart, causing heart problems including heart attacks.

Poorly maintained oral health can also have a direct impact on an individual’s comfort level when talking to others. Many people have experienced this phenomenon in life. They go out to a restaurant, eat something with high levels of garlic or onions, and then become incredibly self-conscious about talking to another individual, especially in close proximity. They may avoid conversation, attempt to cover their mouth, or even hide a smile that could exhibit stained, yellow teeth or other issues within their mouth.

Some of these will have a direct impact on physical health, but they can have an even greater impact on emotional well-being. Proper oral health care begins with regular brushing and flossing for the elderly individual who has all of their original teeth. Even if they use bridges, taking care of those false teeth as well as their existing teeth becomes essential.

An elderly individual who wears dentures should also practice great oral care by not only removing the dentures and having them cleaned regularly, but also disinfecting the mouth, brushing the gums, and taking care to remove as much bacteria from their mouth, tongue, gums, and even the roof of the mouth as often as possible.

When the elder care patient practices proper oral care, he or she will be more confident and comfortable speaking and working with others. This can lead to an increase in smiling and other positive aspects of life. So for the individual who relies on elder care, make sure they also focus on their oral health and well-being. It can make a world of difference for numerous reasons.

The caregivers at Home Care Matters are available to talk with you and your family about all of your elder care needs. Home Care Matters is a home care agency providing quality and affordable elder care near Braselton, GA and the surrounding areas. Call (678) 828-2195 for more information.

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Valerie Darling

Founder, Owner at Home Care Matters

Valerie was born in Miami, FL and after a few family moves, grew up locally in the Marietta, GA area.Valerie is the oldest of 4 (3 younger brothers).She is married and has one child.Valerie is the Founder, Owner and CEO of Home Care Matters.Valerie’s mom, Dee, is the inspiration and primary driver as the how and why the business was born.Valerie says, “My mom is never far from our thoughts.Mom was an integral part of developing and starting HCM before she passed away.Our goal is to stay true to her memory and continue to honor her with the love, values, and ethics she taught us.”

Valerie has the unique experience with home care as she has experienced it from both ends of the spectrum, as a caregiver and as needing care herself as a cancer survivor. Valerie says, “Taking care of someone you love is a physically, mentally and demanding labor of love.Taking care of my mom was the hardest thing I have ever done. It has given me an insight and perspective not many people understand unless you are doing it or have done it.I loved taking care of my mom.I love helping others take care of their love ones too.And now that I’ve been sick, it’s given me a whole new level of empathy and understanding for those who are sick and need help.”

Valerie’s schedule varies daily, but she loves visiting with our clients, families, caregivers, our network partners and being in the office.Says Valerie, “Every day is different, but I wake up excited about what we do, inspired by our team, clients and caregivers.I strive to be a resource to the community.I love my team and I love what we do every day. I like to think my mom would be proud.”

You can reach Valerie by email (Valerie@homecarematters.com) or in our office (770.965.4004).

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