As we age, our skin loses its elasticity and may be prone to thinning and dryness. This results in lot of older people suffering skin tears and pressure areas. It may also cause discomfort and itchyness.
Traditionally it is socially acceptable to shower or bath every twenty four hours, however this may be to much washing for older skin. To keep odours to a minimum it is now reccomended that older people needing care who may be bed bound are wiped clean with special disposable wipes at the time of changing continence aids, which is generally three times a day. This keeps the perianal area fresh and the application of some barrier cream such as calmoseptine will ensure the area is protected from skin rashes and excoriation due to wetness.
Rather than a daily shower, older people can benefit from using a bag bath. which is a specific number of durable skin wipes that can be used to wipe over the skin from head to toe without causing dryness. This method is also kind to carers as there is no need for soap, bowls of water or excessive manual handling. To add to the "day spa" experience the bag bath may be warmed in the microwave for a short time to produce a warm and comfortable daily cleanse.
Bag baths can be a little on the expensive side so a lot of aged care providers cannot afford these luxuries but if the older persons budget or that of their family can stretch to provide this it is well worthwhile. Bag Baths are also a good idea for carers in the home envirionment who may be aging themselves and unable to assist with daily shower routines.
Here is a link to a surgical supplier who provides one bag bath product : There are several brands available. http://www.tss-nt.com/bag_bath.htm
Do you think this a good idea? Would this solve some personal care issues for your clients or loved one?
About Me
- Jordanna Zareb
- I have been working in the aged care industry for thirty years and have gathered a lot of information on the topic in that time. Some things I have learned through formal training by underatking accredited courses, some has been learned through experience and other things I have simply questioned whilst observing clients. Many questions remain unanswered. I have had the privledge of training others in aged care courses and have gathered immense knowledge from this process too. Over the years I have seen many changes in the aged care industry including care standards, government funding models and ultimately schools of thought on the right and wrong way to do things. I have been left with no choice but to grow and change with the industry.
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