Our friendly care teams are here and waiting to support you with all of your care needs.
Simply complete our short form and we'll get back to you.
For people who are bed bound it can be a challenge to prioritise a hygiene routine.
A limited mobility and dependence on family caregivers may make it difficult for them to engage in regular self-care activities.
But with the proper planning, support and assistance, it's possible to guarantee that bed bound loved ones can maintain good hygiene. Here are some useful tips to help caregivers and family members in this important aspect of care.
Daily hair care is important to keep your loved one comfortable and to maintain self-esteem.
Simply brush their hair gently using a soft brush or comb. Keep their hair clean, washing their hair in bed using a basin, mild shampoo, and a towel.
Use a hairdryer on a low setting or allow the hair to air dry. You might also arrange for a hairdresser to come and trim their hair regularly in order to keep it healthy.
People who are bed bound should receive daily bed baths to keep their skin clean and to prevent infections.
Using warm water, mild soap, and a soft washcloth gently cleanse their body, paying extra attention to areas prone to sweating or skin breakdown, such as the folds in the skin.
Necessary tools for a bed bath include:
Maintaining oral hygiene is vital for our overall health and well-being.
Caregivers should assist their bed bound loved ones in brushing and flossing their teeth at least twice a day using a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
If your loved one is able to brush their teeth simply provide them with the tools so they can, helping them to retain a good sense of independence.
Make sure to trim your loved one’s nails regularly to prevent them becoming to long or ingrown.
Use appropriate nail clippers for the hands and feet remembering to cut toe nails straight across. File the nails so they are smooth, as jagged nails could lead to an infection from scratches to their fragile skin.
You might also offer to paint your loved one’s nail if they like them painted.
Bedding should be changed regularly to maintain the utmost cleanliness and prevent any skin issues or infections.
When someone is bedridden the bedding will need to be changed more often as they can quickly accumulate crumbs from food, sweat and dead skin particles.
Use soft, breathable materials such as cotton to reduce the risk of bed sores. If your loved one is incontinent, use protective mattress covers and replace them promptly after accidents.
Bed sores typically develop when an individual remains in one position for an extended period, leading to reduced blood flow to the affected area.
People who are bed bound are much higher at risk of developing bed sores. To prevent them, caregivers should change the position of your loved one to relieve pressure on vulnerable areas.
Use pillows to support and cushion bony prominences. Keep their skin clean and moisturised to minimise the risk of sores.
Keep an open line of communication with your loved one to address any discomfort or concerns they may have regarding their hygiene and comfort.
Listen attentively and make adjustments to the care routine as and when needed. Encourage them to express their preferences and offer choices whenever possible.
If the care needs of your loved one surpass your capabilities, consider using the services of professional caregivers or home healthcare providers.
They have the expertise and experience to provide comprehensive care and support, and can assist with more medical tasks such as diabetic foot care, changing or maintaining stoma or catheter bags, support with shaving, support moving position in bed and stretches to prevent pressure sores.
Above all, caring for a loved one who is bed bound requires, empathy, patience and attention to detail.
By following our simple hygiene tips, you can help maintain the dignity, comfort, and overall well-being of your loved one. You are not only assisting them with their hygiene but also helping them to feel good!
Don’t forget each individual's needs are different, so it is essential to tailor the care routine to their specific requirements through good understanding and regular communication.
This article was last updated on April 3rd 2024 by CareYourWay Team
If you're looking into care for yourself or a loved one, we're here to help any time you need us:
Registered Office:
Care Your Way
Little Spires
Totnes
Devon
TQ9 7QE