S4E10: Integrative Dental Care for Older Adults | Dr. Joy Poskozim, DDS, FSCD, CDP
- Author
- Pooja A. Patel, DrOT, OTR/L, BCG, CDP, CFPS
- Published
- Sat 06 Sep 2025
- Episode Link
- None
Summary
In this episode of the Aging Together podcast, Dr. Joy Poskozim discusses the critical importance of oral health for older adults, particularly those in nursing homes and receiving home care. She highlights the connection between oral health and overall health, emphasizing how poor dental care can lead to serious health issues. Dr. Poskozim shares her experiences advocating for better oral care practices and the challenges faced by caregivers in ensuring proper dental hygiene. She also provides practical tips for caregivers and discusses the need for systemic changes in dental care education and advocacy.
Takeaways
- Oral health is crucial for overall health, especially in older adults.
- Many caregivers lack training in oral care for patients.
- Education on dental care should be mandatory for healthcare providers.
- Oral neglect can lead to serious health issues like pneumonia.
- Advocacy is essential for improving oral health care in nursing homes.
- Cultural considerations are important in meal planning for older adults.
- Caregivers should focus on the wins in oral care, not perfection.
- Home health care agencies need to be aware of dental needs.
- Communication between caregivers and dental professionals is vital.
- Regular dental check-ups can prevent complications in older adults.
About the Guest
Dr. Joy Poskozim is the dental director for several nursing care facilities, educating staff as well as providing care to nursing home residents. She also makes house calls in and around the Chicagoland area. Dr. Poskozim has been in private practice for 26 years, practicing integrative health general dentistry at her office on the northwest side of Chicago, and has been performing dental procedures on the home-bound for over 16 years. In 2017, she earned her Dentistry in Long-Term Care Certificate from the University of the Pacific Dental School, her Fellowship with the Special Care Dental Association Geriatric Council in 2018, and is certified as a Dementia Practitioner as of 2021. In 2025, Dr. Joy became an adjunct professor at UIC dental school. Dr. Joy is a 1990 graduate of Marquette University and a 1994 graduate of New York University College of Dentistry. She completed a GPR from Woodhull Medical Center in 2000, where she was awarded Resident of the Year.
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