Geriatric Screenings

Dental Hygiene and Occupational Therapy

At the University of Southern Indiana College of Nursing and Health Professions, Dental Hygiene and Occupational Therapy students piloted an experiential interprofessional education (IPE) event on November 10, 2017. Partnering with the local Southwestern Indiana Regional Council on Aging organization (SWIRCA & More), older adults were recruited to participate in free screenings at the campus. 

Teams of students completed professional assessments to determine oral health status and upper body strength and flexibility. Following the assessment, students collaborated to develop individualized treatment plans to improve activities of daily living, including oral health care home regimens. The volunteers were provided oral health education, including dispensing home oral health care aids modified by the students to meet the clients’ needs.

Following the event, both students and clients surveyed reported high satisfaction with the outcomes.

Faculty:

• Mary Kay Arvin, OTD, OTR, CHT, Clinical Assistant Professor and Chair of Occupational Therapy program.
• Lorinda Coan, RDH, MS, Assistant Professor of Dental Hygiene

The IPE project was recently reported on the American Dental Education Association website. Learn more.