Empowering NGOs to Improve Older Adults’ Oral Health

In Hong Kong, nine out of ten elderly citizens suffer from tooth decay, and nearly all experience gum disease. Unfortunately, many seniors are discouraged from seeking necessary dental care due to financial difficulties, mobility challenges, and a lack of information, all of which worsening their oral health. This initiative aims to address this pressing issue.

The project collaborates with various NGOs to create a sustainable model for community-based dental care. During the 2020-24 academic year, the project team worked with four NGOs and organised more than 20 outreach activities, providing over 800 older adults with free dental check-ups, preventive care, personalised oral health advice, and education on maintaining good oral hygiene. Following dental check-ups, older adults in need of further dental treatment received follow-up care at the NGO-run dental clinics. Consultations on dental subsidy applications were also provided to assist eligible seniors facing financial difficulties.