Medically CitedProper senior hygiene includes taking care of one’s teeth, skin, hair, and every other body component. Discover all of the tricks and tactics here.
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Overview
Ageing is a natural process that everyone goes through, one over which we have no control. As people get older, their bodies will undergo many changes.
Why Is Hygiene Important for the Elderly?
Physically, they may not be as energetic as they used to be and find it more challenging to participate in activities they enjoyed in the past. They may also have certain health conditions that limit their capacity to function normally, some of which are part of the ageing process.
For the elderly, it is essential to stay healthy by eating well, getting sufficient sleep, and exercising regularly.
Oral care for elderly individuals is crucial because it helps prevent exacerbate existing health conditions such as diabetes and heart disease[1]. The mouth can harbor bacteria that, if not properly managed, may contribute to infections and complications. Moreover, regular bathing and handwashing reduce the risk of skin infections and contagious diseases. Maintaining cleanliness also helps in managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, where skin care is essential to prevent complications like ulcers and infections.
Additionally, they must maintain good personal hygiene habits for their overall well-being. Everyone knows that personal hygiene is vital to staying healthy. For the elderly, it helps improve self-esteem, allowing them to feel confident about their total appearance.
Proper hygiene minimises the insecurities they feel from the changes in their physical appearance and boosts their self-confidence, making them happier and more able to enjoy their golden years.
Practice good personal hygiene habits; this also helps prevent skin problems, which most older people are prone to. In addition, it reduces the risk of dental problems and body odour, among other health issues.
Fortunately, seniors with incontinence can rely on MoliCare’s products to help them feel fresh and comfortable and protect them from embarrassing leakage regardless of their physical activities.
Three Essential Personal Hygiene Tips for the Elderly
Here are three essential personal hygiene tips for the elderly:
Regular bath and shower
We typically bathe every day to remove all the dirt and grime that attach themselves to our skin throughout the day. A warm shower at night keeps you clean as you get into bed and helps you get a good night’s rest.
But the question is, how often should elderly person shower?[2] For the elderly, bathing regularly is essential to prevent infections, skin problems, and body odor. Because of their sensitive skin, it is best to use mild soap and shampoo to avoid scalp irritations and keep their skin from drying.
If doctors have specific instructions regarding bathing, it is best to follow them. After bathing, follow up with a moisturiser.
Seniors can suffer from dry skin, which is also a part of the changes occurring in the body. Thus, it is essentials for senior citizens to hydrate their skin with a quality moisturiser.[3]
Proper oral hygiene
Older adults are more prone to gum problems and tooth decay, so it is vital to practice good oral hygiene. For those with natural teeth, brushing at least twice a day keeps the teeth and gums healthy.
Dentists provide detailed instructions on proper maintenance and oral hygiene for those who wear dentures or have implants.
For example, they need to rinse dentures after they eat and soak them overnight in clean water. In addition, regular visits to the dentist are a must for older individuals.
Nail care
Maintaining nail health is crucial for maintaining good personal hygiene.
Nail care is essential to good personal hygiene as nails are susceptible to various infections.[4]
Elderly individuals must maintain well-trimmed nails and keep them filed. They must also clean their nails, using a soft brush to remove dirt particles that may embed beneath them.
They must also regularly clip their toenails and keep their feet clean to minimise the development of infections. Good personal hygiene is beneficial for the overall well-being of elderly adults.
4 Sources
We review published medical research in respected scientific journals to arrive at our conclusions about a product or health topic. This ensures the highest standard of scientific accuracy.
[2] Perspectives of Older Persons on Bathing and Bathing Disability: A Qualitative Study : https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2856710/
[3] Interventions to Improve Hydration in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis : https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8537864/
[4] Older people, personal hygiene, and skin care : https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22165782/
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