Germ control is one of the most important elements of any care routine for an elderly adult.
Seniors tend to have immune systems that are not as strong and effective as those of younger people, meaning that they are more vulnerable to illnesses and infections and their consequences. What may seem like a minor illness or infection for you could result in very serious health issues for your senior, even putting there long-term health or life at risk. By utilizing effective germ control throughout their daily care routine, particularly during times of year when the risk of health issues such as cold and flu are higher, you can protect your parent and reduce the risk that they will suffer a serious infection or illness.
There are many elements of your care routine that can include germ control, but one of the most important is when cleaning your parents home. It is important to use particular steps focused on removing germs and reducing the risk of them multiplying and spreading it back to you or to your parent.
Use these tips for germ control when cleaning your parents home:
-Replace or sanitize dish-washing rags and sponges regularly. These can be breeding grounds for all types of germs and because they come into contact with the variety of services as well as people, they can spread these terms rapidly. Soaking in bleach or microwaving are both effective means of removing germs.
-Focus on surfaces throughout the home that are touched most frequently, including light switches, lamp switches, the phone, door knobs, faucet handles, and the remote control. Consider keeping a germ killing surface wipes easily accessible in all rooms of the house so that they can be used frequently to wipe off these surfaces before use.
-Consider a deep cleaning of all upholstery and carpeting throughout the home at least once per year. This will remove not only germs and bacteria, but also other contaminants that can put your parents health at risk such as dirt, dust, chemicals, hair, pet dander, and more.
-Do not always reach for cleaning products that are high in chemicals. High chemical contents does not necessarily mean they are most effective in basic cleaning, and inhaling chemicals, even in particle form in the air, can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs, further increasing your parents vulnerability.
-Remember to clean the drains in the tub and sink frequently to remove blockages that can foster the growth of germs.
Starting senior care for your aged and loved ones can be one of the best decisions that you make for them during the course of your caregiver journey. An in-home senior care services provider can be with your aging parent on a fully customized schedule so that they have access to the care, support, assistance, and personalized services that they need to manage their individual challenges in the ways that are right for them.
This means that they can maintain a lifestyle that is a safe, healthy, comfortable, and as happy as possible as they age in place while also enjoying as much independence and fulfillment as they can. These services can include transportation, assistance with personal care needs, mobility support, help with housekeeping tasks, meal preparation, companionship, and more.