5 Hygiene Best-Practices For Seniors

Having a routine in place helps to ensure you can do your daily hygiene tasks at roughly the same time every day. With this structure, you can be sure that you stay clean and healthy in the long term.

In addition, this can help you reduce stress as you take care of yourself better in the long term. Taking this time to care for yourself every morning or every night can set the tone and promote better mental health outcomes.

For older adults, it’s important to prevent falls whenever possible. A slip or trip could lead to serious injury and health complications. According to the National Council on Aging, “older adults are hospitalized for fall-related injuries five times more often than for injuries from other causes.” Hence, it’s important to put safeguards where you can. 

Because the bathroom is where slips and falls can happen, it’s a good idea to put in bars to hold on to by the shower and bath. In addition, sometimes mobility aids can be helpful for older adults suffering from injuries or chronic diseases. These safety modifications can help seniors feel better about staying clean without worrying about falling in the bathroom.

Sometimes you can’t always make it to take a shower or do all the hygiene you typically do. Particularly for older adults who suffer from chronic pain, it’s good to have supplies for when you’re not at 100%. From wipes to disposable toothbrushes to dry shampoo, it’s a good idea to have emergency supplies when needed.

In addition, it’s important to ensure that you always have a stock of all the hygiene supplies you regularly need so you never run out.

Oral hygiene is always important, but it’s particularly important for seniors. Dental neglect can lead to a variety of diseases and infections. For that reason, prioritizing brushing and flossing must be part of every senior’s routine.

In addition, older adults should make sure that they can get regular cleanings and checkups with dentists to ensure there aren’t any problems with their gums or their teeth.

Washing your clothing, linens, and towels regularly helps with overall hygiene. Because all of these fabrics touch your body, keeping them clean is important, so you stay clean. It also helps to prevent any skin issues or rashes from dirty clothes.

While laundry can be tedious and difficult, getting it done or getting help with it can ensure Seniors stay in good health. Plus, with clean clothes and linens, you’ll feel better too!

Of course, these are a couple of suggestions! A hygiene plan that works for you or your loved ones is always best. If you have someone in your life interested in in-home care or if you’re interested in receiving care at home yourself, we hope you reach out to us!

Special Touch Home Care helps loved ones get the care they need to live comfortably and independently in the comfort of their own home.

Contact us or schedule a call with a Care Representative today!