by James C. Burden, D.M.D.
Bur-Dent Services
Modern Mobile Dental Care
(732) 780-1119
www.theportabledentist.com
As many of us know, the US population is growing. According to a recent
study, those 85 and older are the fastest growing segment of the population.
While many in this age group enjoy a high quality of life, others suffer
with debilitating health problems, fear, and feelings of helplessness.
Medical conditions have forced many senior citizens to become homebound.
For these individuals, the activities of daily life can be dangerous
and frustrating.
Many healthcare professionals, home care organizations, and family
members are responding to the needs of the homebound. Today, a variety
of health services are finding their way into the homes of older individuals.
In fact, a recent article featured in the Nursing Clinics of North America
noted that, "patients previously treated in institutional settings
for complex [medical] care are now receiving that same care in their
homes, including dialysis, chemotherapy, total parental nutrition, and
dental care." Additionally, non-medical care like companionship
and social services are conveniently provided by a number of home care
organizations. Many local and internet-based groups provide support
and guidance for family members who care for homebound relatives. Collectively,
these services improve the health and well-being of homebound patients
while helping to eliminate feelings of helplessness and fear.
With such a variety of services developed with the homebound individual
in mind, it is easier than ever for these individuals to gain and maintain
a high quality of life. Part of this quality of life begins with a healthy
smile. With new advances in the home care field, dentistry has joined
a growing number of home care professionals. Supported by cutting edge
dental technology, a highly trained portable dentist can breaking down
barriers that face homebound individuals. Prevalent diseases in homebound
individuals, such as, gum disease, dry mouth, cavities, and oral cancer,
can now be handled at home. Left untreated, these prevalent conditions
can be devastating to a patient's quality of life.
There are other benefits to at-home dental care as well. Homebound
individuals do not have to worry about traveling to a traditional office
for their care. There is no needed for expensive and sometimes unreliable
medical transportation. Additionally, caregivers do not have to take
time away from important duties or work to prepare and travel with a
patient. It has been shown that at-home at home services, such as dentistry,
are safer, less expensive, and more convenient for everyone.
Thanks to caring individuals, organizations, and health care professionals,
innovative services enable the homebound individual to remain well cared
for in the comfort of their home. While many individuals are reaching
their 80's, 90's and even 100's, a high quality of life is more accessible
than ever.
Dr. James C. Burden owns and operates Bur-Dent Services, a portable
dental practice caring for patients in Monmouth, Ocean, and Middlesex
counties. Dr. Burden is a proud member of the Solutions For Seniors
Association. He can be reached by calling 732-780-1119. To learn more
about his unique, high-tech, portable practice, visit www.theportabledentist.com.
