ADA News

Washington—May is Older Americans Month, and dental professionals have resources to help them mark the observance.

Each year the Administration on Aging, in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, issues a theme for Older Americans Month to assist the National Aging Services Network of state, tribal, area agencies on aging, and community services providers plan for activities that might take place in May or throughout the year.

This year’s theme "Age Strong! Live Long!" recognizes the diversity and vitality of today's more than 38 million older Americans who span three generations.

For a logo and poster, sample proclamation, sample article and more, log on to the AoA Web site.

The ADA also has a variety of resources to address the oral health concerns of older Americans.

The OralLongevity initiative, a joint effort of the ADA, ADA Foundation and GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare, is designed to increase awareness about the oral health needs of older Americans.

Log on to www.ada.org/orallongevity.aspx to view or download an educational brochure and to view or request an interactive DVD. Additional resources for consumers and dental professionals are also available.

The ADA Catalog also offers a variety of patient education materials geared to older adults, including these brochures:

• Osteoporosis Medications and Your Dental Health (W418);
• Dry Mouth (W279);
• Antibiotics, Dental Treatment and Your Heart (W296);
• Three Tooth Replacement Options (W293);
• Improving Your Smile (W101);
• Healthy Mouth, Healthy Body (W203);
• Diabetes and Your Oral Health (W604);
• Removable Partial Dentures (W106);
• Your Dentures (W104);
• Oral Cancer (W151);
• Dental Implants (W234);
• Scaling and Root Planing (W613);
• Women and Periodontal Diseases (P081).

Save 10 percent on all ADA patient education products by using offer code No. 10406 before June 30.

Log on to ADA.org and click on the "Shop ADA Store" link for more information or to place an order, or call 1-800-947-4746.