A Northumberland County area group is encouraging the Ontario government to invest in programs that help fill the gap in oral health services for low-income seniors.
The Northumberland Oral Health Coalition wants the Ontario Progressive Conservative government to implement a $98 million dollar a year program to provide dental services to low-income seniors in the province.
Coalition member Mary Ito says many older adults and seniors, including those who live in long-term care homes, are on fixed income and can’t afford dental care or the cost of dentures.
The Oral Health Coalition met with Northumberland-Peterborough South Riding PC MPP David Piccini on the issue and are encouraging local seniors to seek action by contacting Piccini’s office.
According to a 2014 study by the College of Dental Hygienists of Ontario, an estimated two to three million people in Ontario do not visit a dentist due to cost.
In addition, a recent survey of CARP (Canadian Association of Retired Persons) members found only 37% of retirees continue to receive dental coverage post-retirement.
The Northumberland Oral Health Coalition is made up of representatives from local health agencies, along with oral health professionals and concerned members of the public.
The coalition works to improve access to dental care for all Northumberland residents.
