Contributed by: UPCD Department of Community Dentistry

March 18, 2026 – The University of the Philippines College of Dentistry (CD) Department of Community Dentistry in collaboration with the College of Allied Medical Professions (CAMP), successfully conducted the first installment of its Community Dentistry Workshop Series titled “Aging, Ability, and Access: A Geriatric Sensitivity Workshop for Dental Students.”

The workshop aimed to deepen dental students’ understanding of the unique challenges faced by the geriatric population and to promote more patient-centered oral healthcare.

The session began with an interactive quiz on the myths on aging, followed by a lecture on the dental care for older adults, with an emphasis on frailty. Participants were also introduced to the importance of interprofessional collaboration, emphasizing a team approach in addressing the complex needs of older adults.

A highlight of the workshop was the experiential learning component facilitated by the CD faculty, the CAMP faculty and the CAMP interns. Dental students actively participated in simulations on the physical and functional limitations often experienced by older adults. These included navigating the UPCD clinic spaces in mobility aids and performing activities of daily living, such as pouring a pitcher of water, toothbrushing and flossing under constrained conditions.

The workshop concluded with a group discussion where participants reflected on their experiences and shared perspectives on improving geriatric oral healthcare delivery.

UPCD Dean Michelle Segarra delivered the closing remarks, underscoring the importance of integrating empathy, inclusivity, and interprofessional collaboration in dental education.

This initiative marks the beginning of a series of workshops designed to help shape future oral health professionals who are not only clinically competent but also empathetic, patient-centered and socially aware.