10/29/2025
An article from McKnightās Long-Term Care News highlights new research linking gum disease to damage in the brainās white matterāchanges tied to memory decline and higher stroke risk. At The Cedars, we support not just bright smiles but strong, healthy brains, because good oral health is essential to aging well and living life to the fullest!
Thatās why we partner with the MOTIVATE Program (Maineās Oral Team-Based Initiative: Vital Access to Education) by the Lunder-Dineen Health Education Alliance of Maine.This evidence-based program provides education, training, and coaching to caregivers and healthcare teamsāboth in long-term care and at home. By emphasizing daily oral care, early warning signs, and the link between oral and overall health, MOTIVATE helps preserve dignity, enhance quality of life, and make oral health a vital part of total wellness for older adults.
Older adults with gum disease are more likely to display signs of white matter damage in the brain, which is correlated with memory decline, balance issues and higher stroke risk. That is according to an October study published in Neurology.