How should you respond to a family member asking why you are not brushing a resident's teeth for them?

Responding to a family member's inquiry about why a resident's teeth are not being brushed offers an opportunity to emphasize the importance of promoting independence and self-care among residents. By encouraging the resident to brush their own teeth, caregivers facilitate a sense of autonomy and help them maintain functional abilities. This approach is aligned with person-centered care, which prioritizes the resident's dignity and involvement in personal hygiene tasks, reinforcing their self-esteem and overall well-being.

This choice reflects an understanding of the importance of enabling residents to perform tasks independently, fostering both physical and emotional health. It demonstrates a commitment to their personal growth and skills retention, rather than simply performing the task for them, which could inadvertently diminish their confidence in their abilities over time. The response reassures family members that the overall goal is to support the resident's health while enhancing their independence.