Our Aging Population

Older adults represent one of the fastest-growing segments of the population. In the U.S., nearly 15% of the population is currently aged 65 and over, with projections showing a 5% increase by 2030.¹ As people age, their risk for health conditions, including oral disease, significantly increases, especially when they become dependent on others for care. However, while the at-risk population of older adults is growing, the working-age population is shrinking. This demographic shift leads to a growing demand for caregivers, yet the available workforce is insufficient to meet this need.

Nurse aides, who are often the primary caregivers for older adults, typically receive minimal training on oral care. This lack of preparation leaves many unable to provide effective oral care, particularly for residents with complex needs. Given the increasing number of older adults, it is more important than ever to ensure nurse aides are properly educated on how to deliver effective oral care and understand its critical impact on overall health.