The Importance of Handwashing While Caretaking

Subconsciously, we know it is important to wash our hands, yet many people still don’t properly wash their hands. With the worldwide pandemic still underway and flu season approaching, we need to make handwashing part of our routine. By understanding why we need to wash our hands and how to apply proper techniques, we can reduce the risk of harmful bacteria and viruses spreading through our bodies and our communities.

How Germs Spread

We touch a lot throughout the day, collecting harmful germs and bacteria. We then transfer that bacteria to the rest of our body by touching our face or food before eating. To reduce the spreading of harmful bacteria, we must wash our hands regularly. Proper handwashing slows the spread of germs that cause various illnesses and infections by almost 21 percent, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

Conditions Spread by Unwashed Hands

When we don’t wash our hands, the bacteria we transfer can cause infections and illnesses.

• Salmonellosis- Salmonellosis is a common infection caused by the bacteria salmonella. It primarily spreads by consuming undercooked meats, raw produce, or unpasteurized dairy products, all of which can carry salmonella. It’s also common to spread salmonella by not properly washing your hands after using the bathroom. Symptoms of salmonellosis include upset stomach, diarrhea, and fever.
• Norovirus- Norovirus is a contagious virus and the most common cause of gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the lining of the intestines. It causes vomiting and diarrhea and may require medical attention in older adults. You can prevent norovirus with thorough handwashing after using the bathroom or handling raw food.
• Hand-foot-mouth disease- This is a common illness seen in young children, but it can spread to anyone. Symptoms include mouth sores, skin rashes, fever, and sore throat. 
• Covid-19- Also known as the coronavirus, Covid-19 is a virus spread through small infected particles admitted when someone breathes, talks, or sneezes. Symptoms vary among people and variants of the disease, but they include fever, chills, cough, fatigue, sore throat, congestion, runny nose, headache, and muscle aches. 

How and When to Wash Your Hands

Handwashing appears to be a simple task, but most people don’t wash their hands properly. It’s vital to wash your hands every time you use the bathroom, before you eat, or after returning from a public place. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend these five steps for effective handwashing.

1. Wet- Using either hot or cold water, get the fronts and backs of your hands wet, including your wrists.
2. Lather- Apply a pump or two of antibacterial soap, then rub your hands together for a foamy lather. 
3. Scrub- Scrub all sides of your hands. Make sure to get under your nails and between your fingers for at least 20 seconds.
4. Rinse- Run your hands under clean water to rinse off the soap. Make sure the water is not too hot or cold.
5. Dry- Use a clean towel to dry your hands.

How Visiting Angels can Help

Handwashing may present challenges to seniors, especially those with arthritis. If you or a loved one needs personal grooming assistance, the team at Visiting Angels is here to help. Our team of compassionate caregivers can also provide light housekeeping, meal preparation, transportation, and medication reminders. Our Augusta office serves those in Augusta, Evans, Martinez, and the surrounding Georgia communities. If you’d like to learn more about our services and how we can assist you and your aging loved one, you can complete this online form or call us at 706.955.4220.