As we become older, simple chores might become more challenging. Personal hygiene can be extremely difficult for many older adults due to a lack of movement and, in some cases, a lack of energy. Medication side effects, a fear of falling, dementia, solitude, or depression can all lead to older adults losing interest in or entirely disregarding their grooming and personal hygiene. Cleanliness and health are inextricably linked. Here are some suggestions to assist you or an older loved one maintain a regular hygiene practice.
Professional Assistance
Personal hygiene services can be provided by a professional caregiver. If your loved one has been avoiding having to ask you or another family member for assistance, he or she may prefer this choice. They may feel better at ease having a non-family person undertake these responsibilities. If your older loved one requires more support in performing daily activities, letting them move into an assisted living community can allow professional caregivers to assist them with numerous activities of daily life, from dental hygiene and showering to mobility and feeding.
Safety Upgrades in Bathroom
The dread of falling or sliding is frequently enough to keep older adults from taking a bath or shower. Install the necessary bathroom equipment, such as a shower bench, elevated toilet seats, and handrails near the toilet and in the shower. These upgrades can prevent falls in the bathroom and help keep your older loved ones safe.
Establish a Regular Hygiene Regimen
Establishing a regular hygiene regimen might assist your loved one in becoming accustomed to certain actions such as cleaning their teeth, combing their hair, and washing. Avoid making these everyday hygiene activities appear like duties or something that needs to be rushed. Make it a regular part of their day and create a comfortable environment for them to carry out hygiene practices by:
- Arranging their things so they can quickly slide into a comfortable attire
- Keeping the towels, the water, and the room warm
- Putting on their favorite music
Identify Issues
Investigate why your older loved one has chosen to neglect their personal hygiene. Some examples of why aging persons frequently acquire poor hygiene practices are mobility concerns and physical inability to conduct their usual hygiene practices. Whatever the cause, it is critical to identify the problems and explore potential remedies in order to keep them healthy and clean.
Get the Help You Need from Our Retirement Community
Helping older loved ones with their personal hygiene is a labor of love, but it can also be exhausting and frustrating. Our highly trained caregivers in our retirement community are here to help you and your loved one feel safe, soothed, and cared for at home. Our approach to senior living is unique in that our retirement community provides all of the care, services, and activities that residents demand at any given time. Our kind and educated team members are dedicated to making each individual feel at ease. Feel the pride that we take in providing an excellent senior living to all our residents. Contact us today to find out more.
