As winter descends, it brings with it an increased risk of illness, especially among seniors. Therefore, maintaining robust health becomes even more essential. One crucial aspect of this is hand hygiene. Explore practical hand hygiene tips designed to help keep you healthy during the colder months. Good hand hygiene not only safeguards your health but also for those around you, including any in-home caretakers. Brave the winter by starting with clean hands and a clean bill of health.
The Importance of Hand Hygiene for Seniors
During winter, the risk of contracting colds, the flu, and other infections increases. It is mainly due to people spending more time indoors, resulting in closer contact with others. Hand hygiene plays an integral role in preventing these illnesses. By thoroughly washing your hands, you can effectively remove harmful germs and reduce the risk of illness.
Hand hygiene becomes more critical when there is an in-home caretaker. This practice ensures that seniors are not only protecting themselves but also those around them from potential infections.
Proper Hand Washing Techniques
Washing hands is not merely about running water over them. It's a process that requires careful attention to ensure that all possible germ-carrying areas are cleaned. To start, you need to run clean water and get your hands wet. Then, use your favorite soap and lather it up well in your palms. Spend at least 20 seconds to ensure you clean all areas, including under the nails. After this, rinse with water and dry your hands using a clean towel.
Remember, frequent handwashing is integral to health. It is particularly true before meals, after using the restroom, after coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose, and when coming in from outside.
The Use of Hand Sanitizers
When soap and water aren't readily available, hand sanitizers serve as a good alternative. When using a hand sanitizer, ensure it contains at least 60% alcohol. Apply the sanitizer to the palm of one hand and rub your hands together, making sure to cover all surfaces until they're dry. However, hand sanitizers should not replace hand washing but supplement it, especially when dealing with visibly dirty hands.
Maintaining Hand Hygiene in a Home Environment
Keeping hands clean at home is just as important. Regular hand washing should be a part of your daily routine. Encourage any in-home caretakers to practice the same habits, ensuring they wash their hands when arriving and regularly throughout their shift. Make hand sanitizers available in different areas of your home as an additional protective measure.
Establishing a hand hygiene routine can make it easier to remember to wash your hands. Make it a habit to wash your hands at key times, such as before meals and after using the restroom.
Get More Guidance From Senior Helpers Dover DE
In winter, when the risk of infection is high, hand hygiene is crucial to maintaining your health and wellness. By regularly washing your hands and using hand sanitizers properly, you can significantly reduce the risk of illness for yourself and those around you.
At Senior Helpers Dover, DE, we are passionate about promoting wellness among seniors. We strive to ensure that you have all the information you need to stay healthy. For more tips, information, or assistance in maintaining good hand hygiene and overall wellness this winter, feel free to contact us. We are proud to serve seniors living in Lewes, Dover, Georgetown, Middletown, and Seaford. Take a step toward better health this winter, starting with clean hands.