Personal hygiene can greatly affect the overall health of your elderly loved ones. This is why it is important for them to stick to a good personal hygiene routine. Of course, they will need your assistance to do what they need to do in order for their bodies to stay clean.
Their bodies are not the same as before. As such, you need to take extra care when ensuring personal hygiene to prevent discomfort and complications. Here are a couple of pointers that you should always keep in mind to ensure good personal hygiene for your own elderly loved ones:
Taking a bath
Your elderly loved one faces a fall risk every time he enters the bathroom, especially when taking a bath since the floor is wet and slippery. In this case, laying down nonslip mats as well as installing handlebars can minimize such risk.
Set a schedule as to when he should be taking a bath and stick to it. You also have to figure out whether he needs to take a full bath or if a half bath or sponge bath will be enough. In most cases, elderly individuals are not really required to take full baths as doing so will only make their skin dry. Additionally, use gentle products for soap and shampoo that will not irritate your elderly’s skin.
If capable, let your elderly loved one do the bathing by himself. Make things less awkward by starting a conversation on a lighter topic. If your elderly loved one prefers, it might be more comfortable for him if he can cover his body with a light towel.
Brushing his teeth
Use a toothbrush and toothpaste that are appropriate for him. The toothbrush should be the right size. If your elderly loved one has difficulties holding and maneuvering the toothbrush, using an electric item or tying up the brush with his hand may do the trick.
Make sure that your elderly will brush his teeth at least twice a day. Set up reminders for him not to forget about this task.
Nail care
Keep the nails short so that dirt will not accumulate beneath them. When trimming the nails, make sure that you will exercise extra caution so as not to cause accidental cuts. Let him calm down, as well, and instruct him not to make sudden movements.
Hair care
As much as possible, keep your elderly loved one’s hair easily manageable. Comb the hair regularly, as well.
Your elderly parent, especially your mother, took care of you while you were young. Return the favor this Mother’s Day by following these pointers not only during this day but every day. New Horizons Home Healthcare can assist you and your loved one through our Home Health Care services. We provide healthcare in Marion Indiana. Please call 765-662-9751 for details.