Grooming for the Elderly

Day-to-day living gets more difficult with age. While we all know this, we often don’t realize how the daily actions we take for granted now can become more challenging. From daily chores to picking up the grandchildren, our daily lives can be physically straining. Regular grooming and bathing are other activities that can be difficult for seniors. Even though grooming and hygiene can become more of a challenge for our loved ones, it is more important than ever to maintain it, not just for personal dignity, but also for health reasons.

Usually, the best and most simple way to provide help to the elderly for grooming is through a professional, such as live in care or home health care services. These caregivers trained to provide all the grooming and hygiene that an elderly patient needs. In the meantime, try some of these tips:

Bathing

• Bathing in a tub is a safer and more convenient choice than a shower, but allow your loved one to make that choice.
• Provide safety measures that make falls less likely; this could include handrails, benches, and non-stick strips.
• Stick with a regular bathing schedule; have everything ready (soap, towels, shampoo) during the process.
• Stay calm and take it slowly; remember that it might take some time.

Dressing

• Be there to help, and encourage self-dressing whenever possible.
• Give them the dignity of picking out their own clothes; maybe lay out several outfits to give them a choice.
• Watch for clothing that might be too tight or uncomfortable.
• Slip-on clothes, Velcro, and zippers can be easier than buttons and clasps.

Hair Care

• Wash regularly, maybe not everyday.
• Hair can be washed in the kitchen sink if bathroom is difficult.
• Encourage a style that is easy to manage, but give them their choice.
• If your loved one enjoys it, and it’s an option, then bring them to the hair salon.

Oral Care

• Clean teeth at least once a day; continue to go to the dentist at regular intervals.
• An electric toothbrush may help those who cannot grip a regular toothbrush easily.
• Dentures should be checked regularly for damage and fittings; they should be kept out of the mouth 6 hours a day to allow the gums to rest.

iCare Home Health: Compassionate Live In Care & Nurse At Home Services

Grooming and hygiene is a very important task when providing care. But it can also be challenging. It will make your loved one more comfortable to have a professional provide this kind of a care. iCare Home Health care services is the premier senior home care organization serving Oakville, Burlington, Mississauga and the surrounding GTA. We provide an entire suite of services to meet the home health care needs of seniors, such as live in care, nurse at home services, and more. Our Personal Support at Home package will provide services for seniors in the home which includes bathing, grooming, and dressing. Contact us for more information and to receive a consultation.