Proper hygiene of the elderly is a very important element of proper care of an elderly person in a nursing home. Elderly people often need help in this area, as their physical fitness and motor skills deteriorate with age.

Daily care

Proper hygiene of the elderly in a nursing home allows the elderly to feel comfortable and has a positive effect on their physical and mental health. The choice of cosmetics is important here, because it should be remembered that the skin of the elderly is more delicate, less elastic and often dries out.

Skin care

An elderly person, like a person of any age, should shower every day. Also because he may sweat more due to deterioration of physical condition. To properly care for the skin of the elderly, you should use gentle, natural body lotions. Due to the fact that in old age, the skin is prone to irritation, avoid perfumed cosmetics and cosmetics with artificial colors. You should also remember about proper skin moisturizing, because in old age, the skin produces less sebum.

Hair care

An older person may struggle with issues such as excessive hair loss, dry or oily hair. Proper hygiene for older people in this area should be based on choosing the right shampoo and conditioner. Many older people have problems with hair drying, so you should take care of its moisture.

Nail treatment

In old age, nails become thicker or more brittle. They often show discoloration and are prone to ingrown nails. Nails should be trimmed regularly, and it is also worth using a nail file. To prevent nails from losing moisture, it is good to rub natural oil, such as argan, into the nail plate.

Oral hygiene

When caring for the hygiene of the elderly, one should not forget about the oral cavity. The elderly are more prone to the formation of cavities in the crown of the gum. Regular oral care consists of brushing the teeth twice a day. If the elderly person suffers from increased tooth sensitivity, it is necessary to take care of a softer toothbrush and a suitable toothpaste. People who have dentures should brush them regularly, using a special toothpaste and brush. A nursing home will help the elderly person to brush his teeth and dentures if necessary.

Hygiene problems of the elderly

Sometimes, older people resist washing, especially those suffering from dementia or Alzheimer's disease. However, forcing an older person to perform any hygienic actions is not allowed, as it humiliates their dignity. An older person will feel more comfortable if daily toileting is done in a leisurely and relaxed atmosphere.

Bathing

The hygiene of the elderly in the case of a mobile pensioner will look somewhat different than in the case of a bedridden one. Remember that daily washing prevents infections and skin diseases.

Mobile elderly person

If the person is mobile, encourage the elderly to take a bath. Ensure their safety by placing non-slip mats on the floor and in the bathtub. Plastic grab bars or chairs should be attached to the bathroom. It is good for the elderly to have a warm robe after bathing, which they can put on immediately after washing, because the elderly are more sensitive to temperature changes.

Bedridden elderly man

Home care for elderly for bathing a bedridden elderly person in a nursing home, special sponges or washcloths are used. It is worth using products adapted for the care of elderly people. Washable products are the ideal solution for proper hygiene of intimate areas. The areas most susceptible to irritation are the armpits and perineum. Also buy diapers and daily pads.

Bedsores are a common problem for bedridden elderly people. In this case, regularly and thoroughly dry and moisturize the skin surface. In turn, performing a massage will stimulate microcirculation. Also, let's not forget to frequently change the position of the lying person.

Hygiene measures for the elderly

With age, the skin is much less elastic, thinner and prone to irritation. For this reason, hygiene of the elderly is an issue that deserves special attention. Do not forget to lubricate the skin regularly. It is a good idea to buy body oils, as well as gentle cleansers that do not contain fragrances. You can use products intended for children.

It is worth using creams without dyes, containing d-panthenol or allantoin. Also stock up on moisturizing wipes with aloe vera. Substances that prevent skin from losing water are also glycerin and urea.

Proper hygiene of the elderly requires careful attention to and comprehensive care of his body. Care will differ when caring for an active elderly person and when caring for a bedridden elderly person.