Life brings us all opportunities to learn something new everyday! I'm learning about caring for a Senior that I happen to love dearly, but, is having difficulty with day to day activities.
Caring for Elders requires that you be willing to do things that you thought were impossible and yet you know you have to do those things anyways. There is a willingness to go beyond what we thought we would be doing and learning to do those things that might be distasteful and generally keep us moving away from the responsibility.
But there are things that make all the distasteful things a little easier to complete and one of these are pre-moistened and good sized Adult Wipes. We happen to have found the one we like called Inspire Premium Washcloths!
Back in late January, my elderly mother had taken ill. She was in hospital for almost a whole month recuperating from pneumonia and the flu. These illnesses can be quite debilitating for the elderly. While in hospital, the signs of early dementia, turned into true brain fog, with doctors hoping that once she was home, that fog would clear up.
Such has not been the case. She is now bed-ridden and the leg muscles so weak that she can no longer hold herself up. So, we are learning to cope with our new reality.
Incontinence has become the major "problem". While we have all had our share of diapering babies, we never think of the possibility that we will be diapering our parents. With a little humour we can get through this stage of our lives.
What's that old joke about diapers and the elderly? Why don't they call diapers for adults Huggies and Pampers? Because it Depends on who is in the will! Just kidding of course.
Caring for adult skin in the nether regions is important especially when they are elderly, bed-ridden and have other health complications. Bed sores are nothing to be scoffed at and can become infected causing even more problems.
With caring for the skin in those intimate areas, dependable quality wipes are a must. Tiny wipes used for babies just don't quite cut it when it comes to adults. You need something that will hold up and yet be soft, strong, gentle and do the job!
We found that the Inspire brand Wet Wipes for Adults, was just what we needed. They are large enough (8 inches x 12 inches). they are moist without dripping all over the place. Latex and alcohol free, they are Ph balanced and have Aloe Vera and Vitamin E for skin health included in each sheet. The only down side is that they are NOT Flushable! But when you are dealing with disposable diapers, that is not a game changer at all, they just go into the garbage with the diapers. Quick and easy, clean and neat all in one package.
For anyone who has a need for a quick, easy and strong washcloth, these disposable ones are the greatest. I love that they are not overly scented, yet they have a nice soft feel to them and one or two do the work and hold up through whatever mess you are facing. These can be used to clean a face, hands or a butt......so many different places that you will find them useful.
I'm signing off for now, but I'm sure I'll have more to share with caring for the Elderly in another Product Review right here on Reviewthisreviews.com.
Olivia, I've been in a similar position of helping someone who wasn't able to help themselves. So, I agree that finding products that prove helpful is necessary and makes the jobs easier for the caregiver. You are doing a very loving thing helping your mother these days. And keeping your sense of humor the way you have is most excellent. Hugs to you and your family.
ReplyDeleteThis is certainly something none of us want to think about or have to do, but it sure is a great thing that the products we need are available. I have said it before and I'll say it again, I admire you for bringing your mom into your home and taking such good care of her yourself. I am sure you are better to her than anyone else in the world would be. I hope you are able to find a little time to pamper yourself too.
ReplyDeleteAs you know, I have walked in your shoes in this regard and understand just how difficult it is to be in this position. I admire you for giving your beloved mom the TLC she needs and deserves, even though it takes a big toll on you and your husband.
ReplyDeleteOlivia--thanks so much for a thoughtful review. I understand how important it is to find the right products and how unprepared we are to deal with it. It is great for those of us who understand and have worked through the issues by trial and error to share with those who are new to caring for loved ones. I have been dealing with these issues for 7 years since my husband no longer can walk and for the past 4 years can no longer stand. He is in a power electric chair 24/ 7 and when I need to move him we use a lift. There was lots to learn as I'm sure you know. I have found a good resource on Facebook in a group called AARP Family Caregivers Discussion Group. I have sent you an invite to the group. It has been very helpful with people who have worked through the issues offering advice.
ReplyDeleteThank you for this very kind and compassionate review regarding how to care for loved ones with dignity and love. It is important to find the right products to assist and personal recommendations can save a lot of trial and error making things a little less stressful. Having cared for loved ones myself, I admire you for looking after your Mum and please try to take some time to look after yourself as well. Sending Hugs.
ReplyDeleteOlivia, sending blessings to you and the family - this part of life can be so challenging. You're an amazing daughter. Very kind and thoughtful. I'm sure your product tips here will help others dealing with similar situations. Watching my mom's health deteriorate was one of the hardest times of my life - sending you extra hugs.
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