Social workers' consideration of dental support for people living with dementia: Findings from interviews and care assessment documentation.

ABSTRACT: Social work assessments underpin support plans for many people living with dementia in their own homes in England, but it is unclear how they acknowledge that dementia places people at greater risk of mouth and dental problems affecting their wellbeing. We explored if and how dental needs are addressed during care assessments and social workers' perceptions of this aspect of personal care. This study analysed (a) semi-structured interviews with 14 social workers providing support to people living with dementia in their own homes, (b) data from 39 care assessments and support plans from two English local authorities. Interviews were recorded online, transcribed, and thematically analysed. Documents were analysed descriptively and presented visually. Participants acknowledged that oral care

SUBMITTER: Soilemezi D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11780968 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature