Body odor is something that a lot of seniors struggle with as they get older. Seniors can develop body odor for many reasons besides not showering regularly. Some of the most common reasons why seniors develop body odor are:
- Hot weather
- Clothing that doesn’t allow for air circulation
- Side effects from medication
- Changes in skin and sweat glands related to age
- Hormone changes
- Diet changes
- Dehydration
- Skin Infections
But there are things that can be done to eliminate body odor. The first thing to do is make sure that your mom or dad has personal care at home. With personal care at home, you can be sure that your mom or dad is getting regular showers or baths safely. Care providers who work with seniors are trained to help seniors of any size bathe or shower safely.
Some other things that can help your senior parent get rid of body odor with the help of personal care at home providers are:
Wear Breathable Clothing
Ensure that your senior parent has clothes made from natural fabrics like cotton. These fabrics allow the skin to breathe and reduce sweat accumulation. Personal care at home services are a great way to ensure that your senior parent is changing their clothes regularly and wearing clothes and socks made from natural materials.
Use Antiperspirants and Deodorants
Antiperspirants can reduce sweating, while deodorants help mask or eliminate odor. Look for products that are gentle on the skin and free from harsh chemicals, especially for seniors with sensitive skin.
However, seniors can be sensitive to chemical scents often used in anticipants and deodorants. Choose products that are unscented and made from natural ingredients so that your mom or dad doesn’t get a rash or an infection.
Maintain a Balanced Diet
Certain foods can influence body odor. Reducing the intake of spicy foods, garlic, onions, and other strong-smelling foods can help. Incorporating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can improve overall body odor.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking water is essential for seniors’ overall health. Drinking at least 8 glasses of water each day helps the body flush out toxins and can reduce the concentration of sweat, which in turn reduces odor. If your mom or dad doesn’t like plain water, you or personal care at home caregivers can try fruit water, sparkling water, or other healthy beverages to get them to drink more.
Don’t Forget Oral Hygiene
Sometimes, body odor can be linked to oral health. Regular brushing, flossing, and use of mouthwash can help prevent bad breath, which can contribute to overall body odor. If your senior parent wears dentures, make sure their dentures are getting cleaned properly on a regular basis.
Your senior parent also needs regular dental cleanings. Professional cleanings will help keep their teeth and gums healthy and eliminate bacteria that can cause odor. If your senior parent hasn’t visited the dentist in a while, now is a great time to schedule an appointment.
If your senior loved one has trouble brushing their teeth, personal care at home caregivers can assist to make sure they stay healthy.
If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring Personal Care at Home in Vacaville, CA, contact the friendly staff at Home Care Professionals today.
Call (866)-940-4855
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