The aim of the project was to develop education to improve oral healthcare for vulnerable patient groups, including frail older adults, individuals with severe mental health conditions, and people with intellectual disabilities. The plan focused on fostering closer collaboration and information sharing between future oral healthcare and care professionals regarding patients' overall health status. This required both oral healthcare professionals and care professionals to develop knowledge and skills related to medical and psychological conditions, oral health, and behavioral aspects specific to these vulnerable groups.
Good oral health is an essential component of overall health and contributes to well-being and quality of life. However, oral diseases remain a significant health issue in Europe, particularly for vulnerable patient groups such as frail older adults, individuals with severe mental health conditions, and people with intellectual disabilities. These patient groups require specialized attention when receiving oral care, including advanced knowledge and skills. It became evident that professionals in oral healthcare, nursing, and social work lacked the necessary expertise to ensure high-quality, interprofessional oral care for vulnerable patient groups.