SCD - older people

Question 1

Patients with what 3 neurological conditions fall into the ‘at risk’ category?

Answer 1

1. Stroke
2. Parkinson’s disease
3. Dementia

Question 2

What is a stroke?

Answer 2

A cerebrovascular accident (CVA) resulting in a sudden or rapidly progressing neurological defect

Question 3

List 4 physical effects of a stroke:

Answer 3

1. Unilateral numbness/weakness on contra-lateral side of affected part of brain
2. Communication and swallowing (dysphagia) difficulties
3. Hemiplegia - partial or complete paralysis of one side of the body
4. Loss of function of affected area of brain

Question 4

List 4 risk factors of developing a stroke:

Answer 4

1. Increased BP
2. Increased cholesterol levels
3. Smoking and alcohol
4. High salt/fat diet

Question 5

How long after a stroke should patient wait to undergo dental treatment?

Answer 5

6 months

Question 6

When is aspiration pneumonia more prevalent?

Answer 6

In presence of poor oral hygiene as dental plaque becomes a reservoir for respiratory pathogens

Question 7

Give 4 reasons why root surface caries can develop after a stroke:

Answer 7

1. Xerostomia is a side effect of anti-hypertensive or anti-depressant medication
2. Impaired ability to maintain good OH - increase in plaque accumulation
3. Decreased oral clearance (food)
4. Dietary changes due to dysphagia

Question 8

Why should patients who have had a stroke be sat up slowly?

Answer 8

Due to postural hypertension

Question 9

Explain the 3 cardinal signs of Parkinson’s disease:

1. Dyskinesia
2. Bradykinesia
3. Akinesia

Answer 9

1. Dyskinesia = tremor or involuntary movement
2. Bradykinesia = slow movement
3. Akinesia = muscular rigidity

Question 10

List 5 oral manifestations as a result of Parkinson’s Disease:

Answer 10

1. Xerostomia - decreased quality/quantity of saliva
2. Burning mouth - levodopa medication
3. Root caries - high calorie supplements to maintain weight
4. Dysphagia
5. Drooling

Question 11

List 3 causes of dementia:

Answer 11

1. Alzheimer’s disease
2. Alcohol
3. Nutritional deficiencies

Question 12

List 4 symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease:

Answer 12

1. Memory loss
2. Language deterioration
3. Indifferent attitude
4. Impaired visuo-spatial skills

Question 13

List 3 oral complications in Alzheimer’s patients:

Answer 13

1. More dental plaque - increased caries
2. Poor periodontal condition
3. Poor oral and denture hygiene

Question 14

List 4 indications that might suggest patients who are cognitively impaired are experiencing oral pain:

Answer 14

1. Refusal to eat certain foods
2. Increased drooling
3. Leaving dentures out of mouth
4. Constant pulling at the face

Question 15

What are the 5 categories of elder abuse?

Answer 15

1. Neglect
2. Physical abuse
3. Psychological abuse
4. Financial abuse
5. Sexual abuse