Yogyakarta, 27 October 2024 – As part of the Dentistry Collaborative Update (DCU) Day-2 event, Prof. Dr. drg. Dewi Agustina, M.D.Sc., from the Department of Oral Medicine, Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM), was the keynote speaker in a lecture titled "Sarcopenia and Oral Health in the Elderly." The session took place on the 3rd floor of the Margono Soeradji Building, attended by students, dentists, nurses, and other healthcare practitioners.
In her presentation, Prof. Dewi explained the close relationship between oral health and sarcopenia prevention in the elderly. "Oral and dental health significantly impact overall health, including sarcopenia," she stated.
She elaborated on how aging triggers degenerative conditions such as hypertension, arthritis, and diabetes, which are often exacerbated by poor oral health.
Prof. Dewi also emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, involving dentists, nutritionists, internal medicine specialists, and other healthcare professionals to support elderly health. She advocated for an interprofessional approach as a strategic step to improve the quality of life in this age group.
"Maintaining oral health through proper dental care, balanced nutrition, and exercise can help prevent or reduce the impact of sarcopenia," she added.
During the discussion session, participant Dinda Tri Utami asked, "If an elderly person has already developed sarcopenia, are there ways to improve the condition?" This question reflected practical concerns about managing the condition and underscored the importance of early prevention.
Prof. Dewi played a crucial role in introducing a new perspective on oral health in elderly care. Through her presentation, she provided a deeper understanding of the importance of dental care as an integral part of maintaining overall health and preventing muscle weakness due to aging.
This event also supports the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by raising awareness of elderly health, Goal 4 (Quality Education) through high-quality education for students and healthcare professionals, Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) through interdisciplinary collaboration.
With the insights shared by Prof. Dewi, this session not only enhanced participants' knowledge but also encouraged concrete actions to prioritize elderly health and foster collaboration for holistic care.
Contributors: Anjar & drg. Tjut Intan Permata Sari, Sp.PM. | Author: Pram
