Taiwan county provides dentures for over 24,000 older residents

A publicly funded denture programme in Taiwan’s Chiayi County has helped 24,410 older residents receive dentures over nearly eight years, according to the county health bureau. It has also established a countywide care network, reaching rural communities where dentists are scarce.

The programme offers subsidies for residents aged 65 and over, and Indigenous residents aged 55 and over, who are assessed as needing dentures. Support covers full or partial removable dentures, with care available through 35 participating clinics and hospitals and 57 service points.

To help overcome distance as well as cost, the health bureau has worked with the local dental association to expand services. A mobile oral healthcare vehicle donated by Rotary has also brought services to remote communities, including those around Alishan. The bureau continues to follow up with denture recipients and reports overall satisfaction of 99%.

At a presentation of the programme’s results on November 6, a 74-year-old woman surnamed Huang, from Meishan Township, described the difference in everyday terms. Meals had once been a source of worry; now she could chew comfortably and enjoy sliced guava again.

The county’s stated aim goes beyond replacing missing teeth: it wants older people to eat well, get enough nutrition and receive continuing care in their communities.