The Importance of Handwashing

While handwashing is always an important practice for preventing the spread of illness and infection, it was pulled front and center during the COVID-19 pandemic. Every person should be implementing handwashing best practices, but it is even more critical for the elderly and those interacting with seniors.

When soap and water are not accessible, using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer is an effective alternative for preventing the spread of germs. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers containing more than 60% alcohol are particularly effective and are commonly used in healthcare settings.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people 65 years and older, those who live in nursing homes, and people with chronic conditions are especially vulnerable to the disease. Additionally, 80% of all deaths from the coronavirus in the United States are in adults 65 and older.

Why Hand Washing is Crucial

Hand washing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs and illnesses. When you wash your hands properly, you remove dirt, germs, and other microorganisms that can cause infections. This is especially important in healthcare settings, where the risk of infection is high.

Proper hand hygiene can help prevent the spread of germs and keep patients, healthcare workers, and visitors healthy. By washing your hands thoroughly and frequently, you can significantly reduce the chances of spreading harmful bacteria and viruses, ensuring a safer environment for everyone.

Proper Hand Hygiene Technique

To keep everyone as safe as possible during these times, we must all be vigilant about handwashing. For handwashing to be effective, it must be done properly. While many of us are used to washing our hands, it is easy to forget some of the key techniques that we should use.

After wetting hands with clean, running water, one should apply soap to effectively remove germs and soil. Wetting hands before applying soap enhances its effectiveness in trapping and removing germs.

Some of the most important handwashing tips are:

• Wash for at least 20 seconds. While many people think the temperature of the water is what matters, it is actually the scrubbing that helps. According to the CDC, washing for at least 20 seconds will remove more germs from your hands than only washing for a few seconds. The water can be hot or cold, whichever temperature suits your skin best.
• Use thorough friction, especially under the nails. Along with soap, friction helps lift grease, dirt, and microbes from the skin which ultimately helps reduce the spread of viruses and bacteria.
• Remember to wash everywhere. Make sure to scrub your wrists, between all fingers, and beneath the fingernails to remove all microbes.

After washing, it is important to dry your hands with a clean towel to prevent the transfer of germs.

Drying Your Hands

Drying your hands is an important step in the hand-washing process. When your hands are wet, they can be a breeding ground for germs. To dry your hands effectively, use a clean towel or air dryer. Avoid using a paper towel to dry your hands, as this can spread germs. If you do use a paper towel, make sure to dispose of it properly and wash your hands again. Using a clean towel ensures that you are not reintroducing germs to your hands after washing, which is crucial for maintaining proper hand hygiene and preventing the spread of germs.

When to Wash Your Hands: Preparing Food

Aside from technique, timing matters when it comes to handwashing. Washing hands often and at the key moments will help everyone stay safe. The CDC states you should always wash your hands using proper techniques when:

• After using the toilet, helping another person use the toilet, or changing diapers/undergarments
• Preparing food
• Prior to eating
• After coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose
• Before and after caring for someone who is ill
• Before and after treating a wound
• After handling garbage
• After touching a pet or pet food

Hand hygiene is crucial for maintaining health and preventing the spread of germs and viruses. Hand sanitizers may not eliminate all the germs, especially on visibly dirty hands. When soap and water are not available, using a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol is an effective alternative. It is important to use hand sanitizers containing at least 60% alcohol.

Common Hand Hygiene Mistakes

Despite the importance of hand hygiene, many people make common mistakes that can compromise their hand-washing technique. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Not washing your hands frequently enough
• Not using soap and water
• Not rubbing your hands together to create a lather
• Not scrubbing all surfaces of your hands
• Not rinsing your hands thoroughly
• Not drying your hands properly

By being aware of these common mistakes and taking steps to avoid them, you can ensure that you are washing your hands properly and effectively. Remember, thorough hand hygiene is key to preventing the spread of germs and keeping yourself and others healthy.

Washing Hands for Seniors: Skin Irritation

To reduce the spread of the current virus along with many other illnesses, we must all do our part and take care to properly sanitize our hands. However, for vulnerable populations and their caretakers (like seniors) handwashing is even more vital.

Proper hand hygiene is essential for protecting these vulnerable groups from harmful microorganisms. Germs on unwashed hands can transfer to food, drinks, and surfaces, potentially leading to illness. Washing hands with soap removes germs and prevents infections.

You can trust ComForCare to practice proper handwashing to keep you or your senior family members safe. Every single member of the ComForCare caregiving team is a professional and vigilantly trained in best hygiene practices according to the CDC. All of our caregivers spend the time it takes to teach families and older adults professional handwashing techniques and can remind older adults to keep their hands clean and to not touch their face, especially eyes, nose and mouth.

For the safest in-home care you can count on, contact ComForCare HERE. Remember to moisturize after frequent handwashing to prevent skin irritation.

The Benefits of Hand Washing

Hand washing has numerous benefits, including:

• Preventing the spread of germs and illnesses
• Reducing the risk of infection
• Keeping patients, healthcare workers, and visitors healthy
• Preventing the spread of antibiotic-resistant germs
• Reducing the risk of diarrhea and respiratory infections
• Keeping your skin healthy and preventing skin irritation

By washing your hands regularly and properly, you can protect yourself and others from a wide range of illnesses. Hand washing is a simple yet powerful tool in maintaining overall health and well-being.

Conclusion

Hand washing is a simple yet effective way to prevent the spread of germs and illnesses. By following the proper hand-washing technique and avoiding common mistakes, you can keep yourself and others healthy. Remember to wash your hands frequently, especially when preparing food, handling pet food, or after using the bathroom. Use soap and water, and dry your hands properly to prevent the spread of germs. By making hand washing a habit, you can help prevent the spread of germs and keep your community healthy.