As seniors age, they may start having trouble with everyday tasks like getting dressed or brushing their teeth. If your senior mom or dad still has natural teeth, it’s very important that they take care of them.
Dental infections can cause some serious health problems for seniors. And often, seniors are embarrassed if they can’t brush their teeth regularly. Don’t be surprised if your senior mom or dad is hesitant to talk to you about it if they are having trouble with things like brushing their teeth.
It’s very common for older people who were raised with a different mindset to find it hard to talk about hygiene issues. But that doesn’t mean they don’t need your help.
If you notice that your mom or dad is having trouble brushing their teeth, these five things, including personal care at home services, might make brushing easier for them:
Personal Care At Home
Personal care at home services is a specialized type of home care in which experienced and well-trained caregivers help seniors with hygiene and personal tasks like getting dressed or getting in and out of bed. With personal care at home providers, your senior mom or dad will have discreet and experienced support to make sure they look and feel their best.
Adaptive Toothbrushes
Consider using adaptive toothbrushes designed specifically for seniors or individuals with limited dexterity. These toothbrushes often feature ergonomic handles with larger grips, angled bristles, or built-in mechanisms that make brushing easier for seniors who may have arthritis or difficulty holding traditional toothbrushes.
Electric Toothbrushes
Electric toothbrushes are often recommended by dentists for seniors who have trouble with manual dexterity or hand coordination. Electric toothbrushes’ rotating or oscillating bristle heads can help remove plaque and debris more effectively with minimal effort, making them a convenient option for seniors with limited mobility or strength in their hands and arms.
The body of an electric toothbrush is also larger than that of a typical toothbrush. The base is often rounded, which makes it easy to grip and hold, even if your senior parent has trouble with grip strength.
Pre-Pasted Toothbrushes or Toothpaste Dispensers
Pre-pasted toothbrushes or toothpaste dispensers simplify the tooth-brushing process. These products come with toothpaste already applied to the bristles or feature built-in mechanisms that dispense toothpaste with the press of a button.
Seniors who lack the manual dexterity to remove a cap from a toothpaste tube or put it back on won’t have to struggle if they use pre-pasted toothbrushes or a toothpaste dispenser. If your senior parent is resistant to any kind of personal care at home services, these types of adaptive devices can be very helpful.
Better Bathroom Storage
Consider using assistive devices such as suction cup toothbrush holders or countertop toothpaste dispensers to keep oral hygiene supplies easily accessible and organized for seniors. These devices can help seniors with limited mobility or reach access their toothbrushes and toothpaste without having to open cabinets or drawers, and without having to reach or bend.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Personal Care at Home in McKinney, TX, contact the caring staff at HomeWell Care Services Plano TX today. Call (469) 596-6500
HomeWell Care Services Plano TX is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Plano, Allen, McKinney, Frisco, Richardson, Garland, Little Elm, Prosper, and the surrounding areas.
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