Oral health tips for people with cerebral palsy

A group of fifth and final-year students have developed an educational resource that aims to help address oral health inequities for people living with Cerebral Palsy in Aotearoa New Zealand. 
Jaime, Liv, Ini, Meg, Izzy, and Jasem are studying towards a Bachelor of Dental Surgery at the University of Otago Auckland Dental Clinic. 

Questionnaire

The students have created a questionnaire to see what people who support someone with cerebral palsy already know about oral health and what their current practices are. 

Easy-to-read PDF

“Through extensive research, discussions with caregivers and healthcare professionals, and our own clinical knowledge, we developed an easy-to-read PDF resource to support caregivers and others involved in the care of individuals with cerebral palsy.”

Oral Care Conversations Podcast

“Recognising that many caregivers have busy schedules, we also created a podcast with an accompanying video, allowing people to either listen on the go or sit down and watch at a time that suits them. Our goal was to create resources that are practical, accessible, and evidence-based, helping to improve oral health knowledge and support for individuals living with cerebral palsy.”

Feedback

The students are keen to hear from any families or caregivers who would be interested in meeting over Zoom to discuss the resources. 
“We’re hoping to gather more detailed feedback and opinions in addition to the survey that will accompany the resource.”
Email Jaime Hanrahan on hanja845@student.otago.ac.nz for more information.