Aug 20
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Lyndon Forrest
The Importance of Oral Health in Aged Care
Oral health is a crucial component of overall well-being, especially for residents in aged care. In Australia and New Zealand, where the ageing population is steadily increasing, maintaining good oral hygiene is vital for enhancing the quality of life for our elders. This blog explores the significance of oral health in aged care and highlights the challenges residents face in maintaining it.
Why Oral Health Matters in Aged Care
Oral health extends beyond just clean teeth; it involves a holistic approach to preventing and managing oral diseases that can significantly impact a resident's overall health. Poor oral hygiene can lead to complications like infections, pain, and difficulty eating, which can affect nutritional intake and general health.
The Current State of Oral Health in Aged Care
- Statistics on Oral Health in Australia and NZ: Recent statistics reveal a concerning picture of oral health in aged care facilities across Australia and New Zealand, with many residents suffering from untreated dental decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
- Challenges in Maintaining Oral Health: Physical limitations, cognitive impairments, and reduced manual dexterity hinder residents' ability to perform daily oral hygiene tasks. Limited access to dental care and lack of awareness among caregivers further exacerbate the problem.
Common Oral Health Issues in Aged Care
- Tooth Decay and Cavities: Common among residents due to factors like dry mouth and difficulties maintaining regular oral hygiene.
- Gum Disease: Prevalent in aged care settings, leading to gum inflammation, bleeding, and potential tooth loss.
- Dry Mouth: Frequently reported among residents, leading to discomfort and an increased risk of tooth decay.
- Denture Care: Many residents rely on dentures, which require diligent care to prevent infections and sores.
Addressing the unique oral health challenges aged care residents face is essential for their overall well-being. In the next blog, we'll discuss actionable strategies to improve oral health care for aged care residents, including daily hygiene practices, the role of nutrition, and overcoming barriers to dental care.
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Lyndon Forrest
Managing Director | CEO
I am a passionate and visionary leader who has been working in the field of infection prevention and control in aged care for almost 30 years. I am one of the co-founders and the current Managing Director and CEO of Bug Control New Zealand and Australia, the premium provider of infection prevention and control services in aged care. I lead a team that is driven by a common purpose: to help aged care leaders and staff protect their residents from infections and create a healthier future for them.
I am building a business that focuses on our clients and solving their problems. We are focused on building a world-class service in aged care. We focus on being better, not bigger, which means anything we do is for our clients.
I am a passionate and visionary leader who has been working in the field of infection prevention and control in aged care for almost 30 years. I am one of the co-founders and the current Managing Director and CEO of Bug Control New Zealand and Australia, the premium provider of infection prevention and control services in aged care. I lead a team that is driven by a common purpose: to help aged care leaders and staff protect their residents from infections and create a healthier future for them.
I am building a business that focuses on our clients and solving their problems. We are focused on building a world-class service in aged care. We focus on being better, not bigger, which means anything we do is for our clients.
Chantelle Geiger
Manager, Customer Experience
Chantelle is the manager of customer experience at Bug Control | Infection Prevention Services, where she has been working for the last 18 months. She is responsible for ensuring that the customers receive the best service and satisfaction possible. She is fun, energetic, and very persistent in her pursuit of excellence.
Before joining Bug Control, Chantelle worked as a customer service manager at a wholesale electrical warehouse for 10 years. She has extensive experience in handling customer inquiries, complaints, and feedback. She also has a knack for solving problems and finding solutions.
Chantelle lives in the Queensland countryside with her three wonderful children. She enjoys spending time with her family, gardening, and a quite vodka soda. She is passionate about making a positive difference in the world and helping others.
Chantelle is the manager of customer experience at Bug Control | Infection Prevention Services, where she has been working for the last 18 months. She is responsible for ensuring that the customers receive the best service and satisfaction possible. She is fun, energetic, and very persistent in her pursuit of excellence.
Before joining Bug Control, Chantelle worked as a customer service manager at a wholesale electrical warehouse for 10 years. She has extensive experience in handling customer inquiries, complaints, and feedback. She also has a knack for solving problems and finding solutions.
Chantelle lives in the Queensland countryside with her three wonderful children. She enjoys spending time with her family, gardening, and a quite vodka soda. She is passionate about making a positive difference in the world and helping others.
Erica Leadley
Manager, Marketing and Sales.
Erica Leadley is a dedicated professional with a rich background in agriculture and nutrient management. Growing up on her family's farm in Mid Canterbury, she developed a deep passion for farming. She currently resides on her partner's arable property in South Canterbury.
In 2017, Erica joined the Farm Sustainability team, focusing on nutrient management and environmental stewardship. In February 2024, she became the Manager of Marketing and Sales at Bug Control New Zealand - Infection Prevention Services, where her passion now includes improving infection prevention outcomes.
Outside of work, Erica loves cooking and traveling, often combining her culinary interests with her explorations in Italy and Vietnam. She enjoys entertaining family and friends and remains actively involved in farm activities, especially during harvest season.
Erica Leadley is a dedicated professional with a rich background in agriculture and nutrient management. Growing up on her family's farm in Mid Canterbury, she developed a deep passion for farming. She currently resides on her partner's arable property in South Canterbury.
In 2017, Erica joined the Farm Sustainability team, focusing on nutrient management and environmental stewardship. In February 2024, she became the Manager of Marketing and Sales at Bug Control New Zealand - Infection Prevention Services, where her passion now includes improving infection prevention outcomes.
Outside of work, Erica loves cooking and traveling, often combining her culinary interests with her explorations in Italy and Vietnam. She enjoys entertaining family and friends and remains actively involved in farm activities, especially during harvest season.