Ensuring the comfort of patients with disabilities when they come in for treatment is a goal for dentists. Here are ways to make a visit to the dentist as easy as possible for those with disabilities.
Accessibility
Needless to say, if patients with physical disabilities cannot access the office, or feel as though accessibility is an issue, the process stops before it even gets started. Physical obstacles are the first things that they encounter in many avenues they try to take. A thorough evaluation of the surroundings in your office and making some inexpensive changes will not only allow for the patients to gain access, it will also create a welcoming ambiance. Here are a few ways to make your office that much more friendly for individuals with disabilities in compliance with the ADA (American Disabilities Act).
Easy Upgrades
- Redesign Your Waiting Area: Create a more open layout for ease of maneuverability as well as wheel chair access. Also, keep in mind the height of your waiting room chairs and front desk area; not all physical disabilities require aid devices, but all benefit from height and easy access.
- Assisted Device Accessibility: While this goes in hand with the waiting area, having wheel chair or other assisted device access —such as crutches, walkers, etc.— in your exam rooms is also important. Whether your patient is confined to their chair or has the ability to sit in your exam chair, having the space for their assisted to have the clearance to move with them, or be near them can feel very affirming.
- Clear Signage (for bathrooms and other facilities): Make your office as easy to navigate as possible. An easy and inexpensive way to help all your patients find their way is by having clear wayfinding signs around the office.
- Install Handrails: Installing handrails at a dental office can help make the facility more accessible for individuals with mobility issues. It provides much-needed support and balance when navigating the office, such as up the stairs, walking down the hallways, or getting up and down from the dental chair.
- Adjust Dental Chair Height: Adjustable seat heights at a dental office can significantly enhance accessibility for all patients. This feature accommodates individuals of different heights, elderly patients, those with mobility challenges, and children, ensuring everyone has a comfortable and hassle-free visit.
Worthy Upgrades
- Install Adjustable Sinks: By having adjustable sinks, everyone regardless of their height or physical limitations can comfortably use the sink, promoting inclusivity and ease of use.
- Install Wider Doors and ADA Push Buttons: Having wide doors or even installing door actuators allows patients using wheelchairs, walking aids, or strollers, to easily move in and out of the office. It can also be a great help for you when bringing in heavy shipments.
- Invest in Wheelchair Recliner: Transfer from a wheelchair and discomfort in dental chair are two important barriers for access to dental care among wheelchair-bound patients. An automated wheelchair recliner that helps to mimic the dental chair functioning like the Compact Wheelchair Recliner allows patients to receive treatment whilst still seated in their own wheelchair and can be a worthy investment.
These changes will not only make dental offices more ADA-compliant, but also ensure a comfortable and hassle-free experience for all patients.
It's Not Just Physical
Patients with mental, developmental, or intellectual disabilities can be fully mobile, but they bring their own set of challenges to the dentist's office. Depending on the severity of the disability, developmentally disabled patients can be anything from picky to unpredictable. Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down's Syndrome, panic disorders, separation anxiety, and other mental disorders can create, in patients and staff, difficulties well beyond those of everyday activity. For these patients, it's a good idea to arrange a preliminary visit before the actual checkup or exam to help familiarize themselves. Remember, there's no such thing as over communicating until a patient gets comfortable. Allowing them to observe while a caregiver and/or family member has an appointment is effective in showing the patient what to expect, and allows you and your staff to take note of the mood and behavior of the patient.
Also, feel free to offer tools to help ease the experience for both your patient and staff — headphones to help them block out the whirr of the drill, sunglasses/protective glasses for the lights, stuffed animals aren't just for kids they can be a comfort for all, and a weighted vest can help some of your patients to feel more grounded and comfortable— it doesn't hurt to offer some of these tools and mechanisms to your patients to help them feel more comfortable during their visit.
What Needs to be Done?
Accommodating those with disabilities and making them feel welcome is an essential objective for your office. If your knowledge of different afflictions is sparse, it is a good idea to research what to expect from those who represent these disabilities and prepare accordingly. The University of Florida's Paul Burtner College of dentistry offers an online continuing education course. Patients with disabilities can often be overlooked when it comes to oral health care. However, it is our responsibility as dental healthcare professionals to meet the needs of this very special group of patients. A successful visit will be a rewarding experience for both you and your patient.
