| The aim of this descriptive, comparative study investigated resident assessments and reassessments in assisted living (AL) facilities evaluating oral health status and the ability to perform oral self-care.AL rules and regulations from 12 states in the westernregion were evaluated and verified in being accurate and current by a designated contact person ineach state. Findings revealed AL facilities require resident assessments be completed on a regular basis; however, little is known about the oral health assessments that are performed in these facilities. Assessmentsfor oral health status lacks consistency and completeness across the stateswith some very limited in scope related to determining the resident’s oral health status and ability to provide daily self-care.The inclusion of dental hygienists and dentists on the interprofessional team caring for Al residents has the potential to improve residents’ oral health and thereby improving their overall health and quality of life.Key Words: oral health, resident assessment instrument, assisted living, activities of daily living, assisted living regulations, dental hygienist, dentists |