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Geriatric syndromes and oral health
As we age, our bodies undergo cognitive and physiological changes associated with the natural ageing process, varying from person to person. The term geriatric syndromes includes a whole series of clinical conditions of varying aetiology resulting from the combination of diseases that are highly prevalent among the elderly. In other words, they are multifactorial disorders…
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The importance of hydration in the health of older people
The adult human body is made up of between 50 to 65% water and so adequate hydration is essential for it to properly function. Water is present throughout the body including, inside most cells, in the intercellular spaces, in the blood and in bodily fluids that are of enormous importance to regulate our body functions,…
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Xerostomia: more than just a dry mouth
We have all experienced the unpleasant sensation of having a dry mouth, called xerostomia, which is caused by a decrease in saliva production. The general symptoms of this disorder are, dry lips and mucosal dryness, and can sometimes cause atrophy and hypersensitivity, including other symptoms such as the formation of fissures on the tongue or…
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Dysphagia: when swallowing becomes a serious problem
Dysphagia is a disorder characterised by difficulty or impossibility in swallowing, the prevalence of which increases with age. In addition to serious nutritional and respiratory problems, dysphagia can lead to a serious deterioration in the quality of life of affected older people, both socially and emotionally. As we get older, developing healthy habits becomes a…
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Common oral health changes amongst older people
As we get older, the ageing process involves a whole series of changes. These are both anatomically and physiologically, which can affect our abilities and the normal functioning of our bodies. Our mouth and teeth are no exception. In fact, ageing increases the chances of the appearance of oral disorders. It is common amongst elderly…
