Ageing Australia
2 hours
Learn evidence-based oral health care strategies for older adults in aged care settings. This masterclass equips nurses, care workers, and allied health professionals with practical skills to support oral hygiene, manage dementia-related challenges, and improve residents' quality of life through trauma-informed approaches.
This masterclass is designed for healthcare professionals working in aged care settings, including registered nurses, enrolled nurses, assistants in nursing (AINs), allied health workers, and personal care workers. Participants should have current experience or responsibility for providing care to older people. No specific prior qualifications are required beyond current employment in an aged care role. Participants must access the training on individual devices and be available for the full 2-hour session including the Q&A component.
The masterclass covers the impact of oral care on overall general health and quality of life for older people. Participants will learn to recognize types of oral conditions impacting seniors, including missing teeth, use of dental aids, dentures, and debilitating oral conditions. The program focuses on building confidence in supporting older people with oral hygiene in the quickest, safest and most effective ways. A significant component addresses communication and behavior management strategies specifically designed for older people with dementia or cognitive impairment. The curriculum emphasizes trauma-informed care approaches, recognizing that many older people may have experienced dental trauma or have developed anxiety around oral care.
Ageing Australia is Australia's peak body for aged care providers and a trusted leader in aged care professional development. The masterclass is facilitated by Adjunct Associate Professor Leonie Short, a registered dental therapist with extensive academic credentials, including a Master of Health Planning from UNSW and graduate certification in health services management from UTAS. Leonie has held academic positions at six universities, played a key role in establishing Australia's first new dental school in 57 years, and has worked extensively in aged care and disability settings. Her expertise is backed by over $2.24 million in secured research grants and widespread publications in the field.
Upon completion, participants will be equipped to enhance oral health outcomes for older people in their care settings. This masterclass directly supports career development for aged care professionals by building clinical competency in an often-overlooked but critical area of aged care. Professionals can apply these evidence-based strategies to improve resident quality of life, reduce oral health complications, and demonstrate compliance with Strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards. The skills are applicable across residential aged care, home and community care, retirement living, and CHSP provider settings.
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