Telehealth in geriatric dentistry: A comparative analysis of concordance between virtual and in-person examinations for hospitalized older patients.

AIMS: This study aims to assess the concordance between in-person clinical and virtual oral examinations among hospitalized older adults. METHODS: A single examiner performed an in-person clinical examination, recorded systemic health history and oral health indices, clinically documented the Bedside Oral Exam (BOE), and captured photographs for subsequent analysis during a virtual examination. Following a 90-day washout period, a virtual examination was repeated by the same examiner and by a second examiner. Descriptive analysis and a Kappa test were used to compare proportions and evaluate the agreement between results. RESULTS: Intra-examiners presented high percentage of agreement in all domains of BOE (80%-86%), with an exception for gingiva (78%). Kappa's intra-examiners presented moderate scores in saliva, mucous membrane, gingiva and teeth/dentures domains and a strong score in the tongue domain (0.839). Inter examiners presented moderate agreement in lips and gingiva, saliva, mucous membrane, and teeth/dentures domains. Inter examiners Kappa scores were weak for lips (0.395) and gingiva (0.498) domains; moderate for saliva (0.703), mucous membrane (0.769) and teeth/dentures (0.714) domains and strong for the tongue domain (0.872). CONCLUSION: In this study, a moderate level of agreement was observed between clinical and virtual oral examinations among older hospitalized patients. These findings are encouraging and warrant further investigation about how teledentistry can be used to enhance oral health access to this vulnerable population.

[Pharmacological intervention in the medication review of institutionalised elderly patients under polypharmacy]. / Intervención farmacéutica en la revisión del tratamiento en pacientes mayores polimedicados institucionalizados.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the Drug-Related Problems (DRP) and their resolution after pharmacological review in institutionalised elderly patients under polypharmacy. DESIGN: Descriptive, retrospective cohort study from January to October of 2022. LOCATION: Twelve nursing homes at the Community of Madrid. PARTICIPANTS: 295 patients aged 65 or older taking at least 5 chronic medications prescribed prior to the treatment review. INTERVENTIONS: Medication reviews carried out by the pharmacist and agreed upon in face-to-face meetings between the primary care doctor, the nursing home doctor and the pharmacist. MAIN MEASUREMENTS: Detected DRP, types and resolution. A age, sex, and number of medications before and after the intervention. Pharmacological subgroups according to anatomical therapeutic chemical classification system (ATC) and active pharmaceutical ingredients involved in the detected DRPs. RESULTS: 1425 DRP were detected, with a mean of 4.85 (SD 3.33) DRPs/patient. The most frequent DRP was reconciliation error (32.52%), followed by pharmaceutical regimen and dosaje. Among the 1425 improvement proposals, 86.73% of them were accepted.Significant statistically differences were observed between the number of medications per patient prior to the pharmacotherapy review (12.29) and after it (10.20), obtaining an average difference of 2.09 (95%CI: 1.98-2.21; P<.001). CONCLUSIONS: It is found that the intervention of multidisciplinary team in which the pharmacist performs a revision of the medication decreased the number of prescribed medications. Therefore, it reduces polymedication and its associated risks.

Fear of Falling in Older Adults Living in a Community-Dwelling Facility: Prevalence and Its Impact on Activity Behavior and Physical Function.

This study examined the prevalence and the impact of fear of falling (FOF) on physical activity (PA), sedentary behavior (PA), and physical function in older adults living in a continuing care retirement community (CCRC). Ninety-three older adults were included and self-reported assessed on PA and SB. Further, participants' physical function was assessed using a collection of measures of valid objective tests. Independent t test was used to compare the dependent variables between FOF groups, and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to control for assistive device usage. FOF was prevalent in 47.3% of the sample and PA and SB did not differ between FOF groups (p > .05). ANCOVA revealed that performance on several physical function tests remained significantly better (p < .05) for the no FOF group compared to the yes group. Our findings demonstrated similar levels of PA and SB between FOF groups, but worse physical function for older adults reporting FOF.

Oral health assessment in institutionalized elderly: a scoping review.

When elderly become frail and in need for complex care, they can no longer live independently at home and may be admitted to nursing homes. Various studies have shown that oral health in this population is remarkably poor, which may lead to distressing situations and impacts quality of life. A variety of definitions or descriptions for oral health is used. Without a uniform parameter, it is impossible to determine whether oral health in institutionalized elderly is actually improving or deteriorating over time, as well as the effect of (preventive) interventions. In search for an adequate and clinically applicable parameter to determine oral health in this specific patient group, this scoping review aims to give an overview of the currently used parameters for determining oral health in institutionalized elderly. Ninety different parameters were identified, and 50 parameters were solely used by one study. Only 4 parameters were frequently used (in > 20 studies). The relevance of these parameters for this specific patient group is discussed. To aid the planning and commissioning of future research and patient care, there is an urgent need for an adequate and uniform parameter for oral health determination in institutionalized elderly.

Immunogenicity of BNT162b2 vaccine after two and three doses in health personnel and institutionalized elderly people not infected with SARS-CoV-2 / Inmunogenicidad de la vacuna BNT162b2 tras la administración de 2 y 3 dosis en personal sanitario y personas mayores institucionalizadas sin infección previa por SARS-CoV-2

Objective The aim of our research was to compare the evolution of the immune response induced by the BNT162b2 vaccine after the administration of two and three doses in healthcare personnel and in institutionalized elderly people (>65 years of age) without previous SARS-CoV-2 infection. Material and methods A prospective observational study was carried out on a convenience sample made up of health workers and institutionalized elderly people, measuring antibodies against S and N proteins of SARS-CoV-2 two and six months after receiving the second vaccine dose, as well as two months after receiving the third dose. Results A significant reduction of the anti-S humoral immune response was reported six months after the second dose of vaccine in both health workers and residents. The administration of a third dose of vaccine induced a significant increase in this antibody response in both investigated groups reaching a similar proportion of responders two months after this third dose. Conclusions Humoral immunity induced by two doses of the BNT162b2 vaccine in persons without prior SARS-CoV-2 infection wanes over time. The administration of a third dose significantly increases anti-S antibodies being highly recommended, especially in people over 65 years of age (AU)

Objetivo El objetivo de nuestra investigación fue comparar la evolución de la respuesta inmunitaria humoral inducida por la vacuna BNT162b2 tras la administración de 2 y 3 dosis en personal sanitario y en personas mayores institucionalizadas (>65años) sin infección previa por SARS-CoV-2. Material y métodos Se realizó un estudio observacional prospectivo en una muestra de conveniencia conformada por sanitarios y mayores institucionalizados, determinando anticuerpos contra las proteínas S y N del SARS-CoV-2 a los 2 y 6 meses de recibir la segunda dosis de la vacuna, así como a los 2 meses después de recibir la tercera dosis. Resultados Se observó una reducción significativa de la respuesta inmune humoral anti-S 6 meses después de la segunda dosis de vacuna, tanto en sanitarios como en residentes. La administración de una tercera dosis de vacuna indujo un aumento significativo de esta respuesta de anticuerpos en ambos grupos, alcanzándose una proporción similar de individuos respondedores a los 2 meses de esta tercera dosis. Conclusiones La inmunidad humoral inducida por 2 dosis de la vacuna BNT162b2 en personas sin infección previa por SARS-CoV-2 disminuye con el tiempo. La administración de una tercera dosis aumenta significativamente los anticuerpos anti-S siendo muy recomendable, especialmente en personas mayores de 65 años (AU)

Immunogenicity of BNT162b2 vaccine after two and three doses in health personnel and institutionalized elderly people not infected with SARS-CoV-2.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of our research was to compare the evolution of the immune response induced by the BNT162b2 vaccine after the administration of two and three doses in healthcare personnel and in institutionalized elderly people (>65 years of age) without previous SARS-CoV-2 infection. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A prospective observational study was carried out on a convenience sample made up of health workers and institutionalized elderly people, measuring antibodies against S and N proteins of SARS-CoV-2 two and six months after receiving the second vaccine dose, as well as two months after receiving the third dose. RESULTS: A significant reduction of the anti-S humoral immune response was reported six months after the second dose of vaccine in both health workers and residents. The administration of a third dose of vaccine induced a significant increase in this antibody response in both investigated groups reaching a similar proportion of responders two months after this third dose. CONCLUSIONS: Humoral immunity induced by two doses of the BNT162b2 vaccine in persons without prior SARS-CoV-2 infection wanes over time. The administration of a third dose significantly increases anti-S antibodies being highly recommended, especially in people over 65 years of age.

Percepção sobre abandono afetivo em idoso institucionalizado / Perception of emotional neglect in institutionalized elderly / Percepción del abandono afectivo en adultos mayores institucionalizado

Objetivo: Compreender a percepção dos idosos institucionalizados quanto ao abandono afetivo por parte de seus familiares.Método: Trata-se de um estudo exploratório, comabordagemqualitativa. Conduzido por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas. A organização e análise dos dados foram baseadas na técnica de Minayo. O estudo foi realizado em uma Instituição de Longa Permanência para Idosos, localizada em uma cidade do nordeste de Santa Catarina.Resultados: Participaram do estudo nove idosos, com idades entre 60 e 89 anos, com diferentes estados civis (viúvos, casados e divorciados), variando sua escolaridade do nível básico ao superior, além de serem aposentados ou pensionistas. Foram identificadas quatro categorias analíticas: (1) vivência na instituição, (2) motivos para a institucionalização, (3) relacionamento familiar e (4) percepção do abandono familiar.Conclusão: alguns idosos enfatizaram sentir-se esquecidos na instituição, o que os deixa tristes e deprimidos. É crucial para a prática de a enfermagem compreender a realidade dos idosos nas Instituições de Longa Permanência, pois essa compreensão está diretamente ligada à prestação de cuidados em todos os níveis de assistência à saúde

Objective: To understand the perception of institutionalized elderly individuals regarding the emotional abandonment by their family members.Methodology: This is an exploratory study, using qualitative methods. Conducted through semi-structured interviews. Data organization and analysis were based on Minayo's technique. The study was conducted at a Long-Term Care Institution for the Elderly located in a city in northeastern Santa Catarina.Results: Nine elderly individuals participated in the study, ranging in age from 60 to 89 years old, with different marital statuses (widowed, married, and divorced), ranging in education from basic to higher levels, and being retirees or pensioners. Four analytical categories were identified: (1) experience in the institution, (2) reasons for institutionalization, (3) family relationships, and (4) perception of family abandonment.Conclusion: Some elderly individuals emphasized feeling forgotten in the institution, which makes them feel sad and depressed. Understanding the reality of the elderly in Long-Term Care Institutions is crucial for nursing practice, as this understanding is directly linked to providing care at all levels of healthcare assistance in the Health Care Network

Objetivo: Comprender la percepción de las personas mayores institucionalizadas con respecto al abandono afectivo por parte de sus familiares. Metodología:Se trata de un estudio exploratorio, utilizando métodos cualitativos. Realizado a través de entrevistas semiestructuradas. La organización y análisis de los datos se basaron en la técnica de Minayo. El estudio se llevó a cabo en una Institución de Larga Estadía para Personas Mayores lubicada en una ciudad del noreste de Santa Catarina. Resultados:Nueve personas mayores participaron en el estudio, con edades comprendidas entre 60 y 89 años, con diferentes estados civiles (viudos, casados y divorciados), variando en educación desde niveles básicos hasta superiores, y siendo jubilados o pensionistas. Se identificaron cuatro categorías analíticas: (1) experiencia en la institución, (2) motivos para la institucionalización, (3) relaciones familiares y (4) percepción del abandono familiar. Conclusión:Algunas personas mayores enfatizaron sentirse olvidadas en la institución, lo que los hace sentir tristes y deprimidas. Es crucial para la práctica de enfermería comprender la realidad de los adultos mayores en las Instituciones de Larga Estancia, ya que esta comprensión está directamente vinculada con la prestación de cuidados en todos los niveles de asistencia sanitaria en la Red de Atención a la Salud.

Avaliação de condição de saúde bucal de idosos institucionalizados: revisão integrativa / Assessment of oral health conditions of institutionalized elderly: integrative review / Evaluaciónde las condiciones de salud bucal de ancianos institucionalizados: revisión integrativa

Com o aumento da expectativa de vida, é esperado que a população idosa se faça presente cada dia mais na sociedade. Por esse motivo, é importante reconhecer as necessidades de saúde desse grupo de pessoas que vivem institucionalizadas, para que a odontogeriatria atue de forma mais ativa e proceda de maneira mais efetiva, atendendo as demandas priorizando uma maior qualidade de vida.Objetivo:Identificar as principais alterações que acometem a cavidade oral de idosos institucionalizados. Metodologia:Fez-se uma revisão integrativa nas bases de dados LILACS, BBO, IBECS, SciELOe PubMed. Foram usados os descritores "Saúde do Idoso Institucionalizado", "idoso" e "odontologia" junto de seus sinônimos e variações em inglês, retirados do DeCS e MeSH. Os critérios de inclusão foram artigos originais, artigos nas línguas portuguesa, inglesa e espanhola, estudos que envolveram pessoas e sem restrição quanto ao ano de publicação. Foram excluídos estudos feitos em animais, revisões de literatura, capítulos de livros, teses e dissertações. Resultados:Foram identificados 555 registros. Desses, 15artigos foram selecionados para compor a revisão. Diversas alterações orais foram encontradas. As principais foram hiperplasia tecidual, estomatite e xerostomia, candidíase e halitose. Sendo os principais fatores causadores: má higiene oral, medicamentos utilizados e má adaptação de próteses dentárias. Conclusões:Considerando os resultados da análise dessa revisão integrativa, pode-se concluir que a hiperplasia tecidual, estomatite, xerostomia são as alterações mais predominantes nos idosos institucionalizados (AU).

With the increase in life expectancy, it is expected that the elderly population will become more and more present in society. For this reason, it is important to recognize the health needs of this group of people who live institutionalized, so that geriatric dentistry acts more actively and proceeds more effectively, meeting the demands prioritizing a better quality of life. Objective:To identify the main alterations that affect the oral cavity of institutionalized elderly.Methodology:An integrative review was carried out in the LILACS, BBO, IBECS, SciELO and PubMed databases. The descriptors were used "Saúde do Idoso Institucionalizado", "idoso" e "odontologia"together with its synonyms and variations in English, taken from DeCS and MeSH. The inclusion criteria were original articles, articles in Portuguese, English and Spanish, studies involving people and without restriction regarding the year of publication. Animal studies, book chapters,literature review,theses and dissertations were excluded. Results:555 records were identified. Of these, 15articles were selected to compose the review. Several oral alterations were found. The main ones were tissue hyperplasia, stomatitis and xerostomia, candidiasis and halitosis. The main causative factors being: poor oral hygiene, medications used and poor adaptation of dental prostheses.Conclusions:Considering the analysis results of this integrativereview, it can be concluded that tissue hyperplasia, stomatitis, xerostomia are the most predominant changes in institutionalized elderly (AU).

Con el aumento de la esperanza de vida, se espera que la población anciana estécada vez más presente en la sociedad. Por eso, es importante reconocer las necesidades de salud de este grupo de personas que viven institucionalizadas, para que la odontología geriátrica actúe más activamente y proceda con mayor eficacia, atendiendo las demandas priorizando una mejor calidad de vida.Objetivo: Identificar las principales alteraciones que afectan la cavidad oral de ancianos institucionalizados.Metodología: Se realizó una revisión integradora en las bases de datos LILACS, BBO, IBECS, SciELO y PubMed. Se usaron los descriptores"Saúde do Idoso Institucionalizado", "idoso" e "odontologia"Los criterios de inclusión fueron artículos originales, artículos en portugués, inglés y español, estudios involucrando personas y sin restricción en cuantoal año de publicación. Se excluyeron estudios en animales, revision de literatura, capítulos de libros, tesis y disertaciones.Resultados: Se identificaron 555 registros. De estos, 15artículos fueron seleccionados para componer la revisión. Se encontraron varias alteraciones orales. Los principales fueron hiperplasia tisular, estomatitis y xerostomía, candidiasis y halitosis. Siendo los principales factores causales: la mala higiene bucal, los medicamentos utilizados y la mala adaptación de las prótesis dentales.Conclusiones: Considerando los resultados del análisis de esta revisión integrativa, se puede concluir que la hiperplasia tisular, la estomatitis, la xerostomía son las alteraciones más predominantes en los ancianos institucionalizados (AU).

Impact of Family Function on the Quality of Life and Health Perception of Non-Institutionalized Dementia Patients.

BACKGROUND: Dementia is one of the pathologies that has increased the most among the older population (mainly Alzheimer's disease), and it has a direct impact on the quality of life (QoL), cognitive performance, and health of these patients. Family functionality can play a role in this QoL if these patients are not institutionalized. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the role of family function in the QoL and health perception of non-institutionalized dementia patients, as well as related variables such as anxiety, depression, optimism, or pessimism. METHODS: Cross-sectional study with a sample of 54 patients diagnosed with some type of dementia, non-institutionalized, or in outpatient care, from different centers in the province of Valencia (Spain). The EQ-5D, MMSE, Apgar Family or general health, and Goldberg anxiety and depression questionnaires were utilized. RESULTS: The correlation of the Apgar Family with the General Health Questionnaire-new onset problems variable (GHQ) and Chronicity and General Health Questionnaire-chronic problems (CGHQ) of the Goldberg Quality of Life questionnaire was statistically significant and negative (GHQ r = -0.310; p = 0.034. CGHQ r = -0.363; p = 0.012); as well as between Apgar Family and Anxiety-Depression (r = -0.341; p = 0.020). The correlation of the Apgar Family with the Life Orientation Test-Pessimism variable (LOT) was statistically significant and negative (r = -0.270; p = 0.061). Finally, severe dysfunction of Apgar Family has a negative correlation with self-perception of health (p = 0.036 B = -16.589) determined by the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). CONCLUSION: Family functionality directly influences anxiety, depression, optimism, and pessimism. This could explain why family function is related to the QoL of patients and their self-perception of health.

Prevalence of frailty and its association with oral hypofunction in older adults: a gender perspective.

BACKGROUND: Previous studies have indicated an association between oral hypofunction and frailty in community-dwelling older adults. However, this issue has not been evaluated in institutionalized older patients. We aimed to determine the prevalence of physical frailty in this particularly vulnerable group and evaluate its association with oral hypofunction, analyzing possible differences by gender. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted in private and public care homes in Guayaquil (Ecuador) from January 2018 until December 2019. Participants were classified as robust, pre-frail, and frail according to the Fried's frailty phenotype. Oral hypofunction was defined as the presence of at least three positive items in the following list: poor oral hygiene, oral dryness, reduced occlusal force, decreased masticatory function, and deterioration of swallowing function. The relationships between frailty and oral hypofunction were analyzed using logistic regression models for the whole sample and stratified by gender. Statistical analyses were performed using STATA 15.0 software (Stata Corp. LP, College Station, TX, USA). RESULTS: Among the 589 participants analyzed (65% women), the median age was 72 years (interquartile range: 66-82). Pre-frailty and frailty were presented in 66.7% and 28.9% of them respectively. Weakness was the most frequent item (84.6%). There was a significant relationship between frailty and oral hypofunction in women. In the overall sample, the frequency of frailty was 2.06 times higher (95% CI 1.30-3.29) in patients with oral hypofunction, and this association was maintained in women (ORa: 2.18; 95% CI 1.21-3.94). Reduced occlusal force and decreased swallowing function were items significantly associated with the presence of frailty (ORa: 1.95; 95% CI 1.18-3.22 and ORa: 2.11; 95% CI 1.39-3.19, respectively). CONCLUSION: The prevalence of frailty and pre-frailty was high among institutionalized older people and was associated with the presence of hypofunction, especially in women. Decreased swallowing function was the most strongly item associated with frailty.

Estado nutricional e consumo alimentar de idosos residentes em uma instituição asilar de Feira de Santana- Bahia / Nutritional status and food intake of elderly residents of a nursing home in Feira de Santana - Bahia

O Estado Nutricional (EN) exerce grande influência na morbimortalidade de idosos institucionalizados, e a sua avaliação permite definir uma intervenção nutricional individualizada. Esse estudo objetivou avaliar o estado nutricional e o consumo alimentar de idosos residentes de uma instituição de longa permanência. Trata-se de um estudo transversal, realizado com 37 idosos institucionalizados residentes, no ano de 2019. O EN foi avaliado pelo questionário da Mini Avaliação Nutricional (MAN). O consumo alimentar foi obtido através da pesagem total dos alimentos, verificando sua adequação de acordo com as recomendações para idade. As diferenças entre variáveis foram testadas por meio do teste t de Student e o teste de Mann-Whitney. As associações entre variáveis foram investigadas com auxílio dos coeficientes de correlação de Pearson e Spearman. As prevalências de desnutrição e risco de desnutrição nos idosos foram de 21,6% e 73%, respectivamente. O Índice de Massa Corporal (IMC) demonstrou predominância de baixo peso nos homens (38,9%) e sobrepeso nas mulheres (47,4%). Foi encontrado consumo excessivo de carboidratos e proteínas na população, sendo que, a ingestão de energia, proteínas e lipídios foi superior entre o grupo masculino. A circunferência do braço (p= 0,007), necessidade energética estimada (p= 0,049) e IMC (p <0,001) foram associados positivamente com a MAN. Os resultados demonstraram que, esses idosos são caracterizados por alto risco nutricional associado a alterações na composição corporal, e inadequações nutricionais. Sugerindo que, independente do consumo alimentar estar adequado em quantidade, não foi suficiente para prevenir o quadro de desnutrição nos idosos institucionalizados.(AU)

The Nutritional Status (NS) has a great influence on the morbidity and mortality of institutionalized elderly, and its evaluation allows to define of an individualized nutritional intervention. This study aimed to assess the nutritional status and food consumption of elderly residents of a long-term institution. This is a cross-sectional study carried out with 37 institutionalized elderly residents in 2019. The NS was assessed by the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) questionnaire. Dietary intake was obtained through total weighing of the food, checking its adequacy according to the recommendations for age. Differences between variables were tested using the Student's t-test and the Mann-Whitney test. Associations between variables were investigated with the aid of Pearson and Spearman correlation coefficients. The prevalence of malnutrition and risk of malnutrition in the elderly was 21.6% and 73%, respectively. The Body Mass Index (BMI) showed a predominance of low weight in men (38.9%) and overweight in women (47.4%). Excessive consumption of carbohydrates and proteins was found in the population, and the intake of energy, proteins, and lipids was higher among the male group. Arm circumference (p = 0.007), estimated energy requirement (p = 0.049) and BMI (p <0.001) were positively associated with MAN. The results demonstrate that these elderly people are characterized by the high nutritional risk associated with changes in body composition, and nutritional inadequacies. Suggesting that, regardless of whether food intake was adequate in quantity, it was not enough to prevent malnutrition in institutionalized elderly.(AU)

Edentulismo, necessidade de prótese e autopercepção de saúde bucal entre idosos institucionalizados / Edentulism, need for dentures, and self-perception of oral health among institutionalized older people

RESUMO Objetivou-se descrever a condição de saúde bucal de idosos institucionalizados, com enfoque no edentulismo, na necessidade de prótese e na Autopercepção de Saúde Bucal (ASB), e explorar a associação com fatores individuais. Um estudo transversal foi realizado em Ponta Grossa, município do Sul do Brasil, com amostra de conveniência de idosos residentes em três Instituições de Longa Permanência para Idosos. Por meio de questionário estruturado, foram coletados dados sobre características demográficas, de saúde geral e bucal e acesso a serviços de saúde. No exame bucal, avaliou-se o Índice de dentes permanentes Cariados, Perdidos e Obturados (CPO-D), número de dentes presentes, uso e necessidade de prótese dentária e presença de lesões bucais. Foram avaliados 130 idosos, a maioria com mais de 80 anos (62,20%). O CPO-D médio foi de 30,62 (desvio-padrão 2,85), 62,31% dos idosos eram edêntulos, 41,54% usavam e 79,23% necessitavam de prótese dentária. As lesões bucais foram identificadas em 35,42% dos avaliados, e 64,86% dos idosos classificaram a ASB como boa. Conclui-se que a saúde bucal dos participantes foi considerada ruim, do ponto de vista clínico, levando em consideração a alta prevalência de edentulismo e a necessidade do uso de prótese dentária.

ABSTRACT The aim was to describe the oral health status of institutionalized older people, focusing on edentulism, need for dentures, and Self-Perception of Oral Health (SPOH), and to explore the association with individual factors. A cross-sectional study was carried out in Ponta Grossa, in the South of Brazil, with a convenience sample of older people living in three Long Stay Institutions for the Elderly. Using a structured questionnaire, data on demographic, general, and oral health characteristics and access to health services were collected. In the oral examination, the Index of Decayed, Missing and Filled permanent Teeth (DMFT), number of teeth present, use and need for dental prosthesis, and presence of oral lesions were evaluated. 130 older people were evaluated, most of them over 80 years old (62.20%). The mean DMFT was 30.62 (± 2.85), 62.31% of attendees were edentulous, 41.54% used, and 79.23% needed dental prosthesis. Oral lesions were identified in 35.42% of those evaluated and 64.86% of the participants classified their SPOH as good. It is concluded that the oral health of the participants was considered poor, from a clinical point of view, taking into account the high prevalence of edentulism and the need to use dental prosthesis.

Implementación de un programa de optimización de la farmacoterapia en pacientes institucionalizados (ÓPTIMA) / Implementation of a pharmacotherapy optimisation programme for institutionalised patients (ÓPTIMA)

Objetivo: Las personas institucionalizadas en centros sociosanitarios (CSS) tienen una mayor probabilidad de presentar más problemas relacionados con los medicamentos (PRM) que el resto de la población. El objetivo del presente trabajo ha sido describir la implementación de un proceso de mejora continua (ciclo PDCA) de la prescripción farmacológica de pacientes institucionalizados en CSS concertados/ privados orientado a reducir los PRM.Metodología: Tras una búsqueda bibliográfica, se seleccionaron varias recomendaciones sobre los PRM detectados con mayor frecuencia en los pacientes institucionalizados de nuestra área, que abarca aproximadamente 5.000 residentes en 55 CSS, y se identificaron aquellos que presentaban alguno de los PRM seleccionados. Posteriormente, se constituyó un panel de expertos multidisciplinar para definir los objetivos del proyecto, realizar un análisis de causas y determinar posibles acciones de mejora.Resultados: Tras presentarse el proyecto a los centros de salud (CS), se crearon comisiones ejecutivas entre los farmacéuticos de atención primaria, los profesionales de los CSS y de sus CS de referencia para adaptar las diferentes acciones de mejora. En el análisis intermedio se puede ver una reducción del 4,5% de los pacientes con algún PRM y del 5,2% de las prescripciones por paciente asociadas a los mismos. Debido al elevado número de pacientes institucionalizados, la revisión transversal de PRM permite disminuir la iatrogenia medicamentosa con los recursos disponibles. El ciclo de mejora continua PDCA, tras analizar la prevalencia de los PRM, nos permitirá implementar nuevas acciones o valorar iniciar el ciclo con otros PRM.  (AU)

Objective: People institutionalised in social and healthcare centres (SHCs) are more likely to present more drug related problems (DRPs) than the rest of the population. The aim of this study was to describe the implementation of a process of continuous improvement (PDCA cycle) of the pharma- cological prescription of institutionalised patients in private/contracted SHCs to reduce DRPs.Method: Following a literature search, recommendations were selected on the most frequently detected DRPs in institutionalised patients in our area (approximately 5,000 residents in 55 SHCs). Those presenting any of the selected DRPs were identified. Subsequently, a multidisciplinary panel of experts was formed to define the objectives of the project, carry out an analysis of causes and determine possible actions for improvement.Results: The project was presented to health centres (HCs) and executive committees were set up between primary care pharmacists, professionals from SHCs and their reference HCs to adapt the different improvement actions. The interim analysis shows a 4.5% reduction in the number of patients with DRPs and a 5.2% reduction in the number of prescriptions per patient associated with DRPs. Due to the high number of institutionalised patients, the cross-sectional review of DRPs allows us to reduce drug iatrogenesis. The PDCA cycle will allow us to implement new actions or consider starting the cycle with other DRPs.  (AU)

Predictive Factors of Anxiety, Depression, and Health-Related Quality of Life in Community-Dwelling and Institutionalized Elderly during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

The COVID-19 health emergency and restrictive measures have increased psychological problems, particularly anxiety and depression, in the general population. However, little is known about mental health conditions and the possible risk and protective factors of specific population groups, such as institutionalized vs. community-dwelling elderly. We investigated the abovementioned aspects in a sample of 65-89-year-old people during the third wave of COVID-19 in Italy. We employed a sociodemographic survey and four questionnaires on health-related quality of life (SF-36), loneliness (UCLA), spirituality (FACIT-Sp), and anxiety/depression (HADS). Our findings suggest that the physical, psychological, and spiritual well-being of the elderly had not been seriously impaired by the events related to the pandemic, although most of the participants reported a worsening of their social life and a moderate/high fear of COVID-19. In regression analyses, these two latter aspects turned out to be predictors of higher anxiety, while spiritual well-being and the possibility to get out of the house/institution emerged as protective factors against anxiety and for preserving quality of life, respectively. Our findings help refine the picture of the condition of the elderly in the aftermath of the pandemic, giving some hints about how to continue supporting their well-being and quality of life.

Recomendações para o enfrentamento da pandemia de COVID-19 em Instituições de Longa Permanência para Idosos: rapid review / Recommendations for managing COVID-19 pandemic in long-term care facilities for the older people: a rapid review

Resumo Introdução O controle da disseminação do coronavírus em Instituições de Longa Permanência para Idosos (ILPI) é considerado um desafio, uma vez que os idosos fazem parte do grupo de risco e apresentam prognóstico bastante desfavorável e também alta letalidade. Objetivo Conduzir uma rapid review para mapear e sintetizar a literatura sobre medidas de enfrentamento de Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) em ILPI. Método Foi realizada uma Rapid review, e as buscas foram conduzidas nas bases de dados eletrônicas Biblioteca Cochrane, Web of Science, Scopus, Scielo, Medline/Pubmed e Google Scholar. Foram incluídas publicações a partir de 2019, nos idiomas português, inglês ou espanhol. A seleção das publicações ocorreu em duas etapas: leitura dos títulos/resumos; e leitura na íntegra de todas as publicações selecionadas. As recomendações para enfrentamento da COVID-19 em Instituições de Longa Permanência para Idosos foram extraídas e agrupadas de acordo com o conteúdo. Resultados Foram selecionadas 59 publicações que descreviam recomendações referentes aos temas: controle da disseminação do vírus; formação / educação continuada dos trabalhadores responsáveis pelo cuidado ao idoso; bem como o cuidado no contexto da pandemia: residentes, trabalhadores e familiares, e planejamento e gerenciamento de ações para o enfrentamento. Conclusão As recomendações para o enfrentamento da COVID-19 demandam comportamentos para evitar a disseminação do vírus, adaptações nas dinâmicas de cuidado e de convivência nas instituições, planejamento de ações específicas e suporte familiar, institucional e do Estado para assegurar a proteção da saúde física e psicossocial dos idosos e trabalhadores.

Abstract Background Controlling the spread of the coronavirus in Long-Term Care Facilities for older adults is considered a challenge, since this group have a very unfavorable prognosis and also high lethality. Objective To conduct a rapid review of guidelines to manage COVID-19 in Long-Term Care Facilities for older adults. Method A Rapid review was carried out, searches were conducted in the electronic databases Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Scopus, Scielo and Medline/Pubmed. Publications from 2019 were included, in Portuguese, English, or Spanish. The selection of publications took place in two stages: reading the titles/abstracts and reading in full all selected publications by two independent researchers. Guidelines for managing COVID-19 in LCTFs were extracted and grouped according to content. Results 59 publications were selected describing guidelines regarding control of the spread of the virus; training/continuing education of staff responsible for caring for the elderly residents; care addressing residents, staff and family during the pandemic and planning and management of actions to manage the disease. Conclusion Guidelines for managing COVID-19 demand for behaviors to prevent the spread of the virus and adaptations in the dynamics of care and the coexistence inside facilities. They also require planning for specific actions that include family, institutional and State support so the protection of physical and psychosocial health of the elderly residents and staff is ensured.

Use of multisensory stimulation in institutionalized older adults with moderate or severe dementia.

The Multisensory Stimulation Program can help manage behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia. Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of the Multisensory Stimulation Program on behavioral, mood, and biomedical parameters of older adults with moderate and severe dementia compared to a control group not submitted to this program. Methods: This study is an interventional, parallel, open-label, quasi-experimental clinical trial, which is quantitative and qualitative in nature and is also an exploratory type. The sample was divided for convenience into intervention group (IG) and control group (GC) that did not participate in the Multisensory Stimulation Program. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, nonparametric tests (two-tailed alpha value of 0.1 was applied), and thematic content analysis. Results: The sample consisted of 20 older adults (IG=10 and GC=10), with a mean age of 83 years, an average of 3 years of education, and moderate or severe dementia. Reduction in intervention group behavioral changes (p=0.059) and numerical improvement in intervention group cognition were observed. A decrease in heart rate (p<0.05) and diastolic blood pressure (p<0.05) was observed before and immediately after the session in the intervention group. The caregivers described engaged behavior in intervention group, while they reported apathetic behavior in control group. Session records described verbal and nonverbal communication and sustained attention for more than 3 min regarding the sensory resource explored. Conclusions: The Multisensory Stimulation Program could be a new look at the health care practices performed in the nursing homes that consider the older adults' sensory preferences and may help with dementia behavior management.

Um programa de estimulação multissensorial pode auxiliar no manejo dos sintomas comportamentais e psicológicos da demência. Objetivo: Investigar os efeitos do programa de estimulação multissensorial sobre o comportamento, o humor e parâmetros biomédicos de idosos com demência moderada e grave, quando comparados a um grupo controle não submetido a esse programa. Métodos: Estudo de intervenção quase experimental, paralelo, mascaramento aberto, de natureza quantitativa e qualitativa, do tipo exploratório. Amostra foi dividida igualmente por conveniência entre grupo de intervenção (GI) e grupo controle (GC), que não participou do programa de estimulação multissensorial. estatística descritiva, testes não paramétricos (valor alfa bicaudal de 10% aplicado) e análise temática de conteúdo. Resultados: Amostra composta de 20 idosos (GI=10 e GC=10), com média de idade de 83 anos, média de três anos de escolaridade e demência moderada ou grave. Houve redução de alterações comportamentais (p=0.059) e melhora numérica no desempenho da cognição de Grupo de Intervenção. Observou-se diminuição da frequência cardíaca (p<0.05) e da pressão arterial diastólica (p<0.05) antes e imediatamente depois da sessão no grupo de intervenção. Os cuidadores descreveram comportamento engajado no grupo de intervenção, enquanto relataram comportamento apático no grupo controle. Os registros da sessão descreveram ações de interação verbal e não verbal e atenção sustentada por mais de três min diante do recurso sensorial explorado. Conclusões: O programa de estimulação multissensorial poderia ser um novo olhar sobre as práticas de saúde realizadas em instituições de longa permanência de idosos que considerem as preferências sensoriais do idoso, e pode auxiliar no manejo do comportamento demencial.

Use of multisensory stimulation in institutionalized older adults with moderate or severe dementia / Uso da estimulação multissensorial em idosos institucionalizados com demência moderada ou grave

ABSTRACT. The Multisensory Stimulation Program can help manage behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia. Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of the Multisensory Stimulation Program on behavioral, mood, and biomedical parameters of older adults with moderate and severe dementia compared to a control group not submitted to this program. Methods: This study is an interventional, parallel, open-label, quasi-experimental clinical trial, which is quantitative and qualitative in nature and is also an exploratory type. The sample was divided for convenience into intervention group (IG) and control group (GC) that did not participate in the Multisensory Stimulation Program. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, nonparametric tests (two-tailed alpha value of 0.1 was applied), and thematic content analysis. Results: The sample consisted of 20 older adults (IG=10 and GC=10), with a mean age of 83 years, an average of 3 years of education, and moderate or severe dementia. Reduction in intervention group behavioral changes (p=0.059) and numerical improvement in intervention group cognition were observed. A decrease in heart rate (p<0.05) and diastolic blood pressure (p<0.05) was observed before and immediately after the session in the intervention group. The caregivers described engaged behavior in intervention group, while they reported apathetic behavior in control group. Session records described verbal and nonverbal communication and sustained attention for more than 3 min regarding the sensory resource explored. Conclusions: The Multisensory Stimulation Program could be a new look at the health care practices performed in the nursing homes that consider the older adults' sensory preferences and may help with dementia behavior management.

RESUMO. Um programa de estimulação multissensorial pode auxiliar no manejo dos sintomas comportamentais e psicológicos da demência. Objetivo: Investigar os efeitos do programa de estimulação multissensorial sobre o comportamento, o humor e parâmetros biomédicos de idosos com demência moderada e grave, quando comparados a um grupo controle não submetido a esse programa. Métodos: Estudo de intervenção quase experimental, paralelo, mascaramento aberto, de natureza quantitativa e qualitativa, do tipo exploratório. Amostra foi dividida igualmente por conveniência entre grupo de intervenção (GI) e grupo controle (GC), que não participou do programa de estimulação multissensorial. estatística descritiva, testes não paramétricos (valor alfa bicaudal de 10% aplicado) e análise temática de conteúdo. Resultados: Amostra composta de 20 idosos (GI=10 e GC=10), com média de idade de 83 anos, média de três anos de escolaridade e demência moderada ou grave. Houve redução de alterações comportamentais (p=0.059) e melhora numérica no desempenho da cognição de Grupo de Intervenção. Observou-se diminuição da frequência cardíaca (p<0.05) e da pressão arterial diastólica (p<0.05) antes e imediatamente depois da sessão no grupo de intervenção. Os cuidadores descreveram comportamento engajado no grupo de intervenção, enquanto relataram comportamento apático no grupo controle. Os registros da sessão descreveram ações de interação verbal e não verbal e atenção sustentada por mais de três min diante do recurso sensorial explorado. Conclusões: O programa de estimulação multissensorial poderia ser um novo olhar sobre as práticas de saúde realizadas em instituições de longa permanência de idosos que considerem as preferências sensoriais do idoso, e pode auxiliar no manejo do comportamento demencial.

Effectiveness of Organic and Inorganic Fluoridated Dentifrice on Dental Caries Progression Among Institutionalized Geriatrics: A Randomized Intervention.

Purpose To assess the effects of two commercially available organic and inorganic fluoridated dentifrices on dental caries progression amongst the institutionalized geriatric population. Materials and methods A total of 80 participants were selected and randomly allocated using the coin toss method into two groups, viz. Group I with subjects receiving organic fluoridated dentifrice and Group II with subjects receiving inorganic fluoridated dentifrice. Allocation concealment was done using the Sequentially-Numbered, Opaque, Sealed Envelopes (SNOSE) method. Participants were blinded using analogous dentifrice tubes. They brushed their teeth with the dentifrices twice daily using the modified Bass technique for a period of six months. Their compliance with the intervention was monitored regularly. The outcome measure was susceptibility to dental caries assessed by a cariogram. A single, trained, and calibrated investigator assessed the cariogram at baseline and after six months. Collected data were compiled and analyzed. Results The mean age was found to be 67.75 ± 4.1 years, 70.05 ±7.4 years among Group I and Group II participants, respectively. The results showed that the efficacy of avoiding new carious lesions was higher (75.85%) in Group I participants as compared to Group II (73.4%) participants, but no significant difference in the mean cariogram sectors was observed. However, there was a statistically significant reduction in the Streptococcus (S.) mutans and Lactobacillus colony-forming unit (CFU) (p<0.05) with a considerable increase in salivary pH in Group I participants. Conclusion There is a marked increase in the possibility of avoiding new carious lesions with a reduction in S. mutans and Lactobacillus CFU and an increase in saliva buffer capacity over six months of use of organic fluoride dentifrices. Thus, organic fluoride dentifrice can be an effective agent for institutionalized geriatrics in the prevention of dental caries and oral diseases.

Evaluating the effectiveness of fluoride varnish in preventing caries amongst Long-Term Care Facility Residents.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of professionally applied fluoride varnish on the incidence of dental caries amongst older adults resident in LTCFs in Northern Ireland. BACKGROUND: The oral health status of older adults within Long-Term Care Facilities (LTCFs) is significantly worse than their community living peers. Whilst evidence suggests an important role for fluoride varnish in preventing caries in this population, very few studies have evaluated this intervention. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A quality improvement project was undertaken with dentate residents (n = 190) in nine LTCFs who had fluoride varnish applied by Dental Care Professionals on two separate occasions during a 12-month period (intervention group). Nine LTCFs were chosen as matched controls (control group) with comparable numbers of residents of similar medical status (n = 217). For the intervention group, oral hygiene training was also provided for the care home staff. RESULTS: A total of 407 patients (n = 271 female) were included in the analyses (mean age [SD]: 84.1 [6.6] years). After 12 months, the intervention group recorded a significant reduction in mean number of carious teeth (mean [95% CI]: -0.85 [-1.12, -0.58]; P < .001). Patients in the control group had significant increases in the mean number of carious teeth (mean [95% CI]: 0.21 [0.05, 0.37]; P = .012), mean plaque score (mean [95% CI]: 1.16 [0.28, 2.04]; P = .010) and mean DMFT score (mean [95% CI]: 0.13 [0.04, 0.22]; P = .004). CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates the potential role of fluoride varnish in combination with oral hygiene training for staff in the prevention and arrest of carious lesions among older adults in LTCFs.

Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the University of British Columbia Geriatric Dentistry Program: Clinical education and service.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: In Canada, the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with significant morbidity and mortality in older adults, particularly those in long-term care (LTC). Access to oral health services was limited during the pandemic due to public health restrictions. The aim of this paper was to describe the impact of the pandemic on the clinical education and service of the University of British Columbia (UBC) Geriatric Dentistry Program (GDP), which provides care to LTC residents. METHODS: Data were collected from UBC GDP AxiUm dental software records, including number of dental appointments in 2019 and 2020. Data on revenue in 2019 and 2020 based on clinical production were collected through financial summary reports. Data on the number of educational rotations were collected from summary reports from scheduling software. RESULTS: In 2020, significant reductions in clinical service, revenue, and productivity were observed in the UBC GDP relative to 2019. The number of GDP appointments for June-December 2020 was lower by 68%. The clinical productivity reduced by 67% for the same period. Expenses were slightly reduced. The overall number of LTC clinical rotations for students were only slightly lower for undergraduate students in 2020 than in 2019, and it increased for graduate students. CONCLUSION: The COVID-19 pandemic and associated public health restrictions had a negative impact on the clinical service and productivity of the UBC GDP in 2020 relative to 2019. However, clinical educational rotations to LTC were slightly increased in 2020 relative to 2019. Dental care for LTC residents can be provided if rigorous administrative controls, engineering controls and personal protective equipment are employed.