Winter is here again, and that means that seniors have to take care of their skin. Cold weather outside means hot and dry air inside. And that hot dry air can be very bad for a senior’s delicate skin. Skin infections can become very serious if they’re not treated. And because seniors have such delicate skin that doesn’t have the elasticity it used to have, small cracks in the skin can let in bacteria that can cause infections. So, the first thing that seniors need to do to take care of their skin is to keep it clean. If your mom or dad has trouble showering safely or doesn’t have the dexterity to apply lotions or creams personal care at home providers can help.
With personal care at home, seniors can get the extra help they need with tasks like showering or taking care of their skin without any awkwardness or embarrassment.
In addition to regular cleaning with a gentle soap seniors can use these tips to keep their skin healthy, moisturized, and comfortable all winter long:
Moisturize Daily
Moisturizing is key for protecting dry skin. Moisturizers form a barrier on the skin, helping it retain moisture and stay soft. Choose a thick, fragrance-free lotion or cream. These are more hydrating than thin lotions.
Your mom or dad should apply a thick but gentle moisturizer right after bathing or washing hands. This helps lock in moisture when the skin is damp. Seniors should reapply moisturizer throughout the day, especially on hands, elbows, and other dry areas. Baby lotion is a great moisturizer for seniors.
Use a Humidifier to Add Moisture to the Air
Indoor heating can make the air very dry, which can lead to itchy or cracked skin. A humidifier adds moisture back into the air.
Your mom or dad should have one in the bedroom or any room where they spend a lot of time. Set the humidifier to a comfortable level, around 40-50% humidity. Clean it regularly to keep it free of mold or bacteria. Check whether or not tap water can be used in the humidifier before using it. Some humidifiers require distilled water instead of tap.
Avoid Long, Hot Showers
Long hot showers can feel great on a cold day, but they’re terrible for senior skin. Hot water can strip natural oils from the skin, leaving it dry and irritated.
Instead, your mom or dad should take warm showers that last no more than 10 minutes. They should also use a mild, fragrance-free soap to avoid further drying of the skin. Baby soap or light natural soaps are great for cleansing skin in the winter.
After your mom or dad has a shower shower they should apply moisturizer right away to lock in hydration.
Drink Plenty of Water
Staying hydrated from the inside out is essential. Even if your mom or dad isn’t very active, they still need water.
Your mom or dad should be drinking around eight cups of water a day. Herbal tea or warm water with lemon are good options if plain water feels too cold in winter. Eating fruits and vegetables with high water content, like cucumbers and oranges, can also help.
Wear Soft, Breathable Fabrics
Certain fabrics can irritate sensitive skin, especially in winter. Wool and other rough materials can cause itching and discomfort.
Your senior parent should wear soft, breathable fabrics like cotton or silk. These materials are gentle on the skin and allow it to breathe. When layering clothing, your mom or dad should make sure the first layer is cotton or another breathable fabric.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Personal Care at Home Services near Wilton CT, please call and talk to our friendly and dedicated staff. (203) 744-8380
Home Care Advantage provides quality Non-Medical Home Care for seniors and families in Danbury, Bethel, Easton, Newtown, Redding, Ridgefield, Southbury, Weston, Westport, Wilton, and surrounding areas.
With over 25 years of healthcare experience working with seniors, our model and approach to non-medical home care services are straightforward, providing you with the compassionate care you deserve. Providing care from the heart is what we are all about; we proactively work with you and your family to develop a care plan designed to meet your specific need for assistance and budget.
In addition to having an extensive work background in healthcare, my recent educational experience allowed me to earn my Doctorate Degree in public healthcare. This achievement enhanced my knowledge of the ever-evolving healthcare delivery system and heightened my awareness that you cannot go it alone to get the best outcome. Additionally, I have seen how some of my family members struggled and were overwhelmed with ensuring that their parents were safe and their needs were met. They did not know who to trust or where to turn for reliable and affordable help. I have made it our mission to be part of the solution allowing seniors to remain independent and be treated with the respect they deserve.
We are committed to providing excellent care for our clients, just as we would care for members of our own families. Please be assured that I will use my knowledge and background to protect and be a trusted resource for seniors and their families.
You can be confident that our caregivers are carefully screened, dependable, and selectively chosen to meet the specific needs of our clients. They are experienced and highly trained to provide excellent quality care and follow a strict professional code of conduct and ethics.
Our caregivers are competitively paid directly by our agency; there is no additional charge to you. Home Care Advantage files Social Security/Medicare, Federal and State Withholding Tax, and Unemployment Insurance for our employees. Workers’ compensation insurance and a fidelity bond cover the caregivers and supervisory staff.
Our caregivers are here for you and will work hard to assist you with your specific needs in the comfort of your own home. It is said that “Home is where the heart is.” Let Home Care Advantage provide care that will enrich your life and help you maintain an independent lifestyle in the comfort of your own home, “where you want to be.” Call us now! We look forward to working with you and your family.
Dr. Beverly J. Ruekberg, DHP, MPH, MA, Ed.
President/Geriatric Care Manager
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