Optimal oral health is vital for healthy aging, yet older populations face significant oral health challenges due to inadequate oral health literacy (OHL). This narrative review aims to analyze trends in current OHL programs for older adults to guide the development of effective interventions in the future. Relevant literature was identified through searches of PubMed and Google Scholar using terms related to oral health literacy and older adults, supplemented by a review of the reference lists of relevant articles. Studies were selected based on their relevance to oral health literacy programs in older populations; this review discusses 14 such studies. The review revealed significant diversity in program methodologies, ranging from direct educational interventions for older adults to indirect training for caregivers and healthcare providers. Delivery methods varied from traditional in-person sessions to technology-integrated platforms. Despite short-term successes, the literature demonstrates common limitations, including methodological weaknesses such as small sample sizes and short follow-up durations. Furthermore, implementation can also be hindered by caregiver resource constraints and older adults’ cognitive or technological barriers. Future initiatives must prioritize rigorous, long-term studies, tailor educational interventions to specific vulnerable populations, and implement comprehensive caregiver training to effectively bridge the OHL gap.
Stella Ock (Thu,) studied this question.