Identification of type and load of oral microorganisms associated with ill health and aspiration pneumonia in people living in residential aged care

Background: Oral health problems are being increasingly reported in older adults who are living in residential care communities. People, who rely on others for care, for example, those with moderate to severe dementia, are particularly vulnerable to poor oral health. Poor oral health is associated with increased tooth loss, dental caries, a higher rate of periodontal diseases and susceptibility to aspiration pneumonia and other ill health conditions. Poor oral health is directly linked to decreased overall health in older adults.

Aims: To determine the types and load of oral cavity microorganisms in older people with dementia in residential aged care.

Methods: The study will be conducted in samples obtained from aged care residents (Tasmania) with dementia and having, either teeth or dentures. A total of six hundred eight oral swabs will be collected from the hard palate, tongue, cheek and gum surface of oral cavity by pocket-out collection method. Microbiological analyses (including real-time polymerase chain reaction) will be performed at Medical Science Precinct, University of Tasmania to determine load and type of microorganisms present in the oral cavity following standard procedures.

Significance: The major significance of the project is the development of a cost-effective indicator kit for oral health diagnosis in older people in residential care as well as understanding the role of load and types of oral microorganisms in causing aspiration pneumonia and ill health in this population.