Oral health of institutionalised elderly: a qualitative study of health caregivers' perceptions in Brazil.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to qualitatively explore caregivers' perceptions of oral health care and factors influencing their work in a public long-term care institution for the elderly in Goiania, Brazil.

METHOD

Data were collected from a sample of 10 caregivers using personal in-depth interviews and observation.

RESULTS

Caregivers were mainly nurses' aides without training in oral health care. Oral health was associated with access to dental treatment, oral hygiene and use of dentures. Edentulousness, use of inappropriate dentures and appetite loss were perceived as negative images. Procedures used for oral hygiene were toothbrushing, mouth cleaning with a gauze and using a mouthwash. Conflicting priorities in routine care, lack of caregivers' knowledge and the co-operation of the elderly were the main obstacles to satisfactory oral care.

CONCLUSION

Oral health care of the elderly was perceived as a burden by caregivers, and did not follow a standard protocol. Caregivers' knowledge and perceptions reinforce the need for education and training in oral health issues.