For many people, caring for someone who remains in bed for long periods of time is one of the greatest challenges they have ever faced. However, we must remember that it is a difficult situation for the patient as well. Being fully dependent on others, even in private situations, can provoke many negative emotions. Learn how to make caregiving easier and more comfortable for both the carer and their patient.
Taking care of another person requires the caregiver to remain alert and ready at all times. It is exhausting both physically and mentally. This is why making everyday tasks easier to perform is so important. It will not only increase your comfort as a carer, but also improve your patient's quality of life. Professional skincare products can help you with this.
How do you keep a carer comfortable while they take care of an ill, bedridden or elderly patient?
Improving the comfort of the person who takes care of an ill or elderly patient is very important. It can significantly affect the well-being of both parties. In order to achieve that, we recommend using Seni Care products. They include:
- skin cleansing products for use without water, such as Seni Care conditioning and washing body foam – you don't have to worry about getting the patient's bedsheets and clothes wet while performing a hygiene routine. It will also allow you to take good care of the patient's delicate skin. These products are particularly helpful if the patient has limited mobility or remains in bed for long periods of time. They expedite the performance of the daily hygiene routine, which is also important, especially if it is painful for the patient. This is also crucial for the caregiver who can find a moment to relax;
- wet wipes – they are particularly helpful while taking care of bedridden patients, but they can also be used on a daily basis regardless of the patient’s health status. This product helps cleanse various parts of the body quickly and without water. As a result, it is easier to keep the skin clean and the risk of chafes is reduced;
- air-laid tissue wipes – they are incredibly useful, particularly during the daily hygiene routine. They are a perfect alternative to traditional towels. They are very absorbent and effectively collect water from the skin without rubbing – simply press them gently against the skin to quickly dry it without causing irritation.
Many people who take on the burden of caring for an ill, dependent or elderly patient forget to tend to their own needs in the flurry of everyday chores. And the carer’s comfort is also extremely important! If you take good care of yourself, you can avoid the problems often experienced by the carers: burnout, carer stress syndrome, and even depression. Taking steps aimed at facilitating the performance of caretaking chores will also create a more pleasant and less nervous atmosphere between you and the patient.
How can you improve your patient’s comfort?
Many patients find it difficult to come to terms with becoming dependent on a caregiver, especially if they were previously fully independent and professionally active. They often feel ashamed and angry, particularly if they have difficulty performing even the simplest tasks or going to the toilet on their own. To reduce the discomfort of your patient, we recommend that you use:
- disposable bibs with a pocket – in order to protect your patient’s clothing at mealtimes, use a large disposable bib with a deep pocket for spills and stray pieces of food. It is a hygienic and non-messy solution that allows you to serve a meal to a dependent patient or clean their mouth or face. Using the bib allows you to keep your patient's clothes and surroundings clean while they eat, so you don't have to worry about spills or stray pieces of food.
- odour neutraliser – the patients who remain in bed for long periods of time may sweat more heavily and often use incontinence absorbent products. After you change a used pad or adult diaper, an unpleasant odour may linger in the room. This is when our neutraliser comes in handy – its specially developed formula helps break down odour particles. As a result, it improves your patient’s comfort. Our neutraliser is particularly recommended for eliminating unpleasant odours associated with urinary or faecal incontinence, but it can also be used to remove the odour of vomit, cigarette smoke, sweat, mould, pets and extremely fragrant food. Unlike traditional air fresheners, it does not mask the odour, but eliminates it. It leaves the room smelling pleasant and fresh.
- creams with urea for dry skin – for many people the daily application of body creams is an essential part of their routine and an expression of self-care. Therefore, when the skin becomes dry and tight, the quality of life is significantly impaired. To prevent this from happening, make sure that your patient always has a cream with urea in their toiletry bag. This active ingredient hydrates even the deep layers of the skin and helps restore softness, smoothness and elasticity to the skin. By using the product regularly, you can alleviate the feeling of discomfort and help your patient feel that they are taking good care of themselves, even in their difficult situation.
Allowing another person to take care of them does not mean that the patient loses their sense of independence or has to endure embarrassing situations. With our products every patient can feel comfortable, even if their body fails and refuses to obey their mind.
Seni Care products are designed to improve the comfort of both the patients and their carers. With the right skincare and personal hygiene products, the quality of life of both parties will be significantly improved. Try them out today!