What Is Proper Handwashing Hygiene for Aging Adults?

Most people don’t think a lot about handwashing on a daily basis, but it’s something that older adults need to do more often in order to preserve their well-being. As seniors age, they become more susceptible to infections and a key way to reduce exposure to infections is to remove germs. Handwashing is one of the best ways to accomplish that goal. Personal care at home can help seniors to remember to wash their hands often and properly.

Handwashing Is Essential for Aging Adults

Preventing infections of all kinds starts with proper handwashing. Seniors who are dealing with a compromised immune system face even bigger problems with infection prevention, making it even more essential for them to wash their hands often and well. Regular handwashing removes bacteria, germs, and viruses before they lead to an infection. Home care providers can help to build handwashing into daily routines for aging adults.

Following the Steps

Proper handwashing means following the steps correctly and in the right order. Start by wetting hands under clean running water. It doesn’t have to be warm or hot, as long as soap is involved. Use a mild, moisturizing soap and apply enough to cover hand surfaces. Rub hands together to create a good lather. Lather all surfaces of hands, including between fingers and under nails. It’s important to scrub for at least 20 seconds in order to remove as many germs as possible. Rinse under running water and pat hands dry with a clean towel.

Handwashing Frequency

The general rule for handwashing is to do it regularly throughout the day. There are some specific times when handwashing is most appropriate, including before and after preparing and eating food and after using the bathroom. It’s also good to wash hands after coughing or sneezing as well as after caring for someone else who is sick.

Considerations for Aging Skin

Aging skin is delicate and is more prone to drying out. It’s important for seniors to choose mild soaps that have moisturizing ingredients in them to help prevent dry skin and irritation. Water that is too hot can strip the skin of natural oils, so it’s better to use warm or even cold water. Hand cream after washing hands can help to lock in moisture and keep skin hydrated. Patting skin dry reduces friction and helps to avoid skin damage.

Personal Care at Home Helps a Lot

Seniors who need extra help with tasks like handwashing may need help with other tasks, too. Personal care at home can offer support with getting dressed, eating healthy meals, moving safely around the home, and so many other tasks. Caregivers can remind seniors when it’s time to wash hands again and help them to be safer in many other ways.

Proper handwashing hygiene is simple, but it’s a powerful way for seniors to protect their health as much as possible. Personal care at home can help them to make sure they’re not skipping steps and that they have help when they need it most.

If you or an aging loved one are considering personal care at home in Lincoln, KS, please contact the caring staff at Touching Hearts at Home Central Kansas today. Call 620-603-0685.

Touching Hearts at Home Central Kansas is a Trusted Home Care Agency Barton, Dickinson, Edwards, Ellis, Ellsworth, Great Bend, Hutchinson, Larned, Lyons, Marion, McPherson, Newton, Pawnee, Rice, Reno, Salina, Sedgwick, Stafford, and the surrounding areas.