Daily self-care activities, like hygiene, can be a struggle to complete due to the effects of aging. The exhaustion, weakness, and lack of balance that accompany aging contribute to the difficulties. Family caregivers, however, can help their elderly loved ones with hygiene tasks, like toileting.
Why is hygiene important?
Good personal hygiene is an important responsibility. Keeping the body clean removes the bacteria and germs that can multiply and cause illnesses or infections. Maintaining an effective daily hygiene regimen also prevents older people from spreading diseases to other people.
Washing hands with soap and water after using the toilet is a simple way to prevent germs from spreading. While cleaning the body reduces the threat of germs on the skin, it is also necessary to wash the clothes, towels, and linens on a regular basis.
What products help with toileting?
As seniors age, they may need help with toileting. Several products are available on the market to provide assistance. Urinal aids include urinal bottles, catheters, and pads. When helping a senior use these products, don’t feel embarrassed; the senior may feel more comfortable.
1. Urinal
A urinal can be used for seniors who are unable to leave their beds. The urinal collects urine and is designed to fit either a man or a woman. Ask the older care recipient to place the urinal between their legs. After the senior finishes urinating, remove the urinal.
2. Wet Wipes
If the senior is able to walk to the bathroom, certain products can make toileting easier and more comfortable. Wet wipes, for instance, come pre-moistened with a cleanser and are softer than traditional toilet paper. They keep the skin clean and free from bacteria.
3. Bidet
A portable bidet is another device to assist seniors with toileting. Although it is intended for travel, it is also helpful for home use. The bidet releases a stream of fresh water, which provides a thorough cleansing and prevents infection and irritation.
Bidets reduce the amount of toilet paper used; however, some toilet paper may still be needed for drying. The bidet is especially good for seniors with sensitive skin, as it reduces the risk of chafing, rashes, and similar skin irritations. A bidet can be installed on any toilet.
4. Washcloths
Keeping a senior clean after using the toilet can also be achieved with wet washcloths (do not use dry washcloths). A soft washcloth offers a thorough clean without harsh chemicals. After wiping the older adult clean with the washcloth, launder it using hot water and detergent.
5. Toilet Wands
Bending over when using the toilet can be a hurdle for elderly individuals with limited mobility. Toilet tissue wands are the solution. The long handles on these wands allow the seniors to reach between their legs and wipe without having to bend.
What bathroom modifications are helpful?
Minor modifications to the bathroom can support older adults and provide stability as they navigate the space. Handrails near the toilet, for instance, should be installed so seniors have a better grip as they seat themselves or rise from the toilet.
Consider installing a toilet riser, which raises the height of the toilet seat. The added height puts less stress on seniors’ joints as they sit or rise. It increases confidence when using the toilet. Plus, since rising from the toilet is easier, seniors reduce their risk for slips and falls.
How do caregivers help bedridden seniors with toileting?
Caregivers should gather supplies when assisting bedridden seniors. Gloves, clean linens, incontinence pads, wipes, and a trash can are required. Instruct the elderly person to roll to the side, at which point the caregiver removes the dirty linen and replaces it with a clean one.
Use the wipes to clean the senior’s skin. Prevent the care recipient’s clean skin from touching the dirty parts of the linens as they turn. Repeat this process to clean the senior’s other side. Place the disposable briefs over the senior’s legs and pull them up.
Caregivers who assist incontinent seniors in bed should practice safe techniques to prevent injury, especially since care recipients can move unpredictably or be heavy. Adjust the height of the bed to avoid straining the back. Lift with the legs and use assistive devices when necessary.
When helping seniors use the toilet, give them as much privacy as possible. Preserving their dignity can be achieved by partially closing the door and instructing them to let the caregiver know when they are finished and ready for help again.
Family members may be uncomfortable helping elderly loved ones with intimate tasks, such as toileting. In these cases, it’s recommended that they utilize the services of home care professionals who are experienced in assisting older adults with using the toilet as well as other hygiene tasks.
Professional caregivers from Assisting Hands Home Care are instrumental in helping older adults maintain good personal hygiene. We provide a wide range of non-medical services in the comfort of the care recipient’s home, helping them lead fulfilling and independent lives.
Our in-home care services include discreet help with toileting as well as incontinence issues. We assist seniors with bathing, grooming, and dressing, as well. Caregivers are trained to provide mobility assistance to help older adults get into or out of a bed, chair or wheelchair.
Daily care responsibilities also include healthy meal preparation, timely medication reminders, light housekeeping, and grocery shopping. We provide reliable transportation to areas within the community, such as the local senior center, physical therapy sessions, senior exercise classes, and doctors’ offices.
Assisting Hands Home Care professionals are also pleasant companions, keeping seniors socially engaged and active. Caregivers from our home care agency are licensed, bonded, and insured to give the elderly and their families peace of mind. They’re also trained in CPR and first aid.
Families looking for quality senior home care for an aging loved one are encouraged to consider Assisting Hands Home Care. We are privileged to serve the daily needs of seniors in Westlake, Ohio. Schedule your free in-home consultation today at 440-517-4623 and we’ll develop a customized care plan to meet care needs.
