Caregiver by Design

Hygiene Tips


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Showering, bathing, toileting... it's all a bit overwhelming.  Those are just some of the big picture portions to your caregiving role and just thinking about them might be getting your stress levels going.  We are diving into some of the more specific issues related to hygiene; the ones that can really be a challenge. 
Hygiene challenges.
I spent years working in home care and in long term care settings and here are 4 areas that I found were either totally neglected or addressed infrequently and with poor thoroughness:

  1. Oral hygiene/ Teeth:  whether they can brush their own teeth or need help, this is an area that can be made easier with the use of an electric toothbrush, water pic or dental swap.  Dentures should be cleaned daily and the gums and inner cheeks should be cleansed at least daily with attention to all areas.   Infections can arise from poor oral care.  https://www.usa.philips.com/c-p/HX6850_60/sonicare-protectiveclean-5100-sonic-electric-toothbrush  
  2.      Hair:  brushing hair daily will minimize hypersensitivity that can occur.  At least once a week shampoo treatment.  Using an  Apple Cider Vinegar rinse once a week can help balance out the scalps PH level.  https://www.healthline.com/health/apple-cider-vinegar-dandruff#how-to-use   Using an adaptive tool can help those with limited ROM in the shoulders, to reach their head  https://www.amazon.com/Body-Care-Long-Handle-Washer/dp/B00EQDEZX0/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=arthritis+hair+wash&qid=1605490958&sr=8-1
  3.   Feet:    it is very difficult for many people to reach their own feet and toes and it is an area that is difficult for caregivers to attend to carefully.  Quick tip on gentle self washing between the toes?  Use a bottle/cup washer that can get between the toes gently.   this adds at least 12 inches to the reach from the hand.  Changing socks daily is important.  I've known many individuals who keep them on for a week because they are difficult to change.  A dressing stick and a sock aid can help with this.  What's a dressing stick.  https://www.walmart.com/ip/RMS-Deluxe-28-Inches-Long-Dressing-Stick-Dressing-Aid-for-Shoes-Socks-Shirts-and-Pants/194520335 
  4. peri area:  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perineum women and men to keep these areas washed daily.  Use wet wipes instead of toilet paper.  Consider https://www.brondell.com/bidets/bidet-toilet-seats/ The risk for yeast infection goes beyond the genital area.  Yeast can grow in the creases of the inner groin, abdominal folds, buttocks creases.  These areas should be washed and dried daily.  The use of a hair dryer can be very helpful to dry hard to reach.   

Coming up with a weekly routine for care, addressing these more challenging areas with a plan that gives you confidence and allows your loved one optimized independence will make a big difference. 

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Caregiver by DesignBy Angie

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