For caregivers and adult children of the elderly, like you, many topics are too tricky, delicate, and uncomfortable to discuss, including hygiene issues, concerns, and even the best hygiene products to use since they are afraid that the topic can offend the elderly. Hence, it is among the most common challenges that aging seniors encounter and one of the most common reasons they lose their dignity and independence.
Moreover, it is noticeable that elderlies bathing negligence since most of them do not include showering regularly in their routing. Caregivers and their families can also observe that they have worn the same clothes for some time. People can also notice them not caring about doing their hair or makeup in a while. These things, no matter how small, can signify their struggles in maintaining their hygiene.
With that in mind, it is essential to approach the elderly and respectfully discuss with them to keep a neat appearance and keep them healthy inside and out.
Approaching an Elderly Person to Discuss Personal Hygiene
Many elderly persons tend to refuse help with their hygiene, especially from their family members. That’s why it is vital to discuss this with them not to feel embarrassed about it. Here’s how you and other people can discuss personal hygiene with the elderly:
- Talk to them about the changes you’ve noticed.
It would be most beneficial to take the time to sit down and discuss this with them calmly and understand so they don’t feel embarrassed or incompetent about it. You can approach the topic by letting the elderly know that you noticed some changes and are willing to help address them. You can empower them to be as independent as possible by asking how you should assist them.
- Identify their struggles.
Some seniors are already aware of their hygiene struggles because of specific physical challenges, such as lack of strength. So, it is essential to identify the issues and discuss solutions to help them maintain good personal hygiene. Also, learning about their struggles can help you develop the best solutions to address their problems. Here are some of the general problems and causes why an older adult is struggling to maintain personal hygiene:
- Depression
- Isolation
- Dementia
- Side effects from Medication
- Lack of Mobility
- Lack of Energy
- Dulling Senses
- Fear and Discomfort
- Cognitive Impairment
- Let them take control by including them in the decision for solutions.
One of the main reasons some elderly may refuse to accept assistance with their hygiene is that they feel like they are losing control over their own lives. By asking them this question, they would feel more comfortable:
- Do they prefer for a family member to help them? Or would they prefer to seek assistance from a professional such as a caregiver?
- What activities are they struggling with the most?
- Is there anything about helping them with hygiene that will make them uncomfortable?
- Is there anything that can make maintaining personal hygiene a more comfortable experience for them? (For instance, you can ask if a shower chair inside the bathroom can help be more comfortable and feel safer. Plus, involve them in bathing steps like asking them about bathwater temperatures, etc.)
- Establish a routine or incorporate it with their current routine.
Dulled senses and impaired cognitive functions can make them forget about these daily tasks. Establishing a routine can make them more comfortable about it and get used to these tasks. You can also add their personal touch to these tasks by making them use their favorite products like creams, lotions, and powders.
- Ensure that the bathroom is safe for them.
The fear of falling or slipping in the bathroom is one of the most common reasons some elderly persons skip the shower. There are many kinds of bathroom safety aids, such as grab bars and toilet safety rails, handheld showerheads, and bath chairs, that can be installed to make the bathroom safer for them.
- Respect their privacy.
Most seniors find it embarrassing for their family members or for another person to see them naked. So it is crucial to ensure that they have their personal space even when assisting with their personal hygiene needs. Closing the curtains, blinds, or door and covering them with a towel or blanket can make them feel at ease when getting dressed and undressed.
- Buy appropriate and helpful hygiene aids.
Many devices and products are now available to make hygiene maintenance easier for the elderly. Simple hygiene aids like razors, nail clippers, and bath wipes can make a lot of difference in their hygiene habits.
- Consider seeking professional assistance.
Some elderly may find it difficult or embarrassing to ask for a family member’s help with their hygiene. That’s why hiring caregivers can be beneficial as they may feel more comfortable about caregivers who are more experienced in taking care of older people.
How to Assist an Elderly Person with Personal Hygiene at Home
If your loved one prefers for you or a family member to assist them with maintaining their hygiene, there are several approaches you can try. It may take time to figure out what works best since older adults’ needs differ from one to another. Here are some tips you can try:
- Seek help from their doctors.
Talking to elderly doctors can help you understand more about what they are going through and give you more tips and instructions on addressing this issue. Having the elderly talk to their doctor can also reassure them with their professional recommendations.
- Use positive reinforcement.
Bribery may seem childish, but it can work for some older adults. Celebrating their small achievements or rewarding accomplished tasks that they struggle with can easily make personal hygiene a better experience.
- Compromise is the key.
You may have different standards on hygiene compared to your loved one, so it is vital to keep in mind that it can be difficult and undesirable for them. Always be considerate of what they can and can’t do and try to meet in between.
Final Words
Caring for the elderly is a combination of labor of respect and love, requiring patience and determination. No matter how difficult and tiring it can be, we always need to be considerate and caring of what they are going through.
It is good that many hygiene aids and bathing devices, and products are now available to make personal hygiene maintenance easier for the elderly. AvaCare Medical offers a vast collection of products, devices, and accessories designed for the elderly. Check them out and browse their collections to find the best deals on medical supplies today!
