Protecting their own health is a lot easier for seniors when they routinely practice good handwashing habits. Proper hygiene helps to reduce the spread of germs that can lead to illnesses like the flu, colds, and other infections. As seniors grow older, their immune systems may become less effective, making preventive tasks like handwashing especially important. Reminders from home care providers as well as help with handwashing when they need it helps to keep seniors healthier and safer.
Water Alone Doesn’t Cut It
Rinsing hands with water alone isn’t quite enough to remove germs and bacteria. Soap helps to break down oils, dirt, and germs that collect on the skin. Soap and water are a powerful combination. The format doesn’t matter, since both liquid and bar soaps are equally effective. Moisturizing soaps might be helpful for seniors, but strong fragrances can be overwhelming.
When to Wash?
Knowing when they need to wash their hands is just as important as proper washing techniques. Seniors should make sure to wash their hands regularly throughout their daily activities, including before they eat or start cooking. Other times that make sense include after using the bathroom, after touching pets or trash, and after touching frequently touched surfaces. Elder care providers can remind seniors when to wash their hands as they switch activities.
Technique Makes a Difference
Different types of soap may not make a lot of difference, but handwashing technique really can help. The goal is to remove germs, so that means following a thorough washing pattern. Scrubbing the palms, between fingers, under fingernails, and along the backs of the hands covers all the important bits. Washing for at least twenty seconds helps to remove as much of the germs as possible, so lots of people like singing a short song to keep time. Singing “Happy Birthday” twice in a row is a really easy start.
Drying Is the Next Step
Drying hands properly helps to keep germs from resettling back on freshly washed hands. Seniors should dry their hands thoroughly with either a fresh paper towel or a clean reusable towel. Reusable towels need to be washed frequently so that they are free of germs, too. Home care providers can help seniors to stay on top of those tasks so that they can stay as healthy as possible.
Home Care Providers Can Help with Reminders and Assistance
Elder care providers can offer the gentle reminders and encouragement that seniors need to maintain healthy hygiene habits. Professional caregivers can help seniors establish handwashing routines so they can get into the habit of frequent handwashing. Stocking up on supplies and offering additional help with mobility challenges can also keep seniors on target with their handwashing goals.
Practicing better habits around handwashing allows seniors to reduce their risk of illness, which gives seniors and family caregivers peace of mind that they’re doing well. Small daily routines built up of habits like proper handwashing offer long-term benefits in terms of health, aging in place, and overall safety.
If you or an aging loved one needs home care in Elizabeth, CO, please contact the caring staff at SYNERGY HomeCare of Parker. 303-953-9924
