Caring for those who care and promoting oral health to caregivers of patients with disabilities: a narrative review

Brenda Corrêa Santos; Daniel Lobato Ferreira  Ferraz; Camila Real Delega Rodrigues; Marco Túlio Leandro  Ribeiro; Tamiris Christensen  Bueno; Mirlena Mansur Dionizio da Silva; Márcio Ajudarte Lopes

doi:10.5327/2525-5711.283

Authors

Brenda Corrêa Santos University of Campinas, Piracicaba Dental School, Oral Diagnosis Department – Piracicaba (SP), Brazil. https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9796-0283
Daniel Lobato Ferreira Ferraz University of Campinas, Piracicaba Dental School, Oral Diagnosis Department – Piracicaba (SP), Brazil. https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3740-5127
Camila Real Delega Rodrigues University of Campinas, Piracicaba Dental School, Oral Diagnosis Department – Piracicaba (SP), Brazil. https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4199-2379
Marco Túlio Leandro Ribeiro University of Campinas, Piracicaba Dental School, Oral Diagnosis Department – Piracicaba (SP), Brazil. https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7548-4618
Tamiris Christensen Bueno University of Campinas, Piracicaba Dental School, Oral Diagnosis Department – Piracicaba (SP), Brazil. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3594-3557
Mirlena Mansur Dionizio da Silva University of Campinas, Piracicaba Dental School, Oral Diagnosis Department – Piracicaba (SP), Brazil. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4467-8601
Márcio Ajudarte Lopes University of Campinas, Piracicaba Dental School, Oral Diagnosis Department – Piracicaba (SP), Brazil. https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6677-0065

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5327/2525-5711.283

Keywords:

Person with disabilities, Autism, Caregivers, Oral health

Abstract

This narrative review describes the profound impact faced by caregivers of individuals with disabilities, on their physical, mental, and oral health. Caregivers, particularly women, assist with both basic and complex daily tasks, often under high levels of stress, and in many cases, face challenges related to limited personal, social, or financial support. The continuous demands lead them to neglect their own care causing consequently high rates of chronic health issues, including hypertension, mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety, and oral health problems. Research shows that these health challenges are exacerbated by limited access to healthcare services and financial constraints, with caregivers frequently isolated from social and professional support networks. To address these gaps, our review emphasizes the need for targeted interventions that provide comprehensive support for caregivers. Programs that offer emotional, logistical, and financial assistance, as well as dedicated healthcare services—including oral health—can significantly improve caregivers' well-being. Our “Caring for those who care” initiative seeks to address these needs, and initial results underscore the importance of accessible, ongoing care for caregivers. This review advocates for systemic support structures that enhance caregivers' quality of life, ultimately benefiting the individuals under their care.

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