In light of the serious national COVID-19 crisis, it’s important to look after our most vulnerable – the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions who can be more susceptible to illness. As we age our immune systems begin to weaken, making it tougher to fight illnesses and infections. As a timely reminder, we’ve compiled a list of four top tips to help older people and their families keep their hygiene as best as it can be during these precarious times.
Take those everyday precautions
Hands come into contact with hundreds of surfaces daily, which can be carrying thousands of germs. Where possible, try to avoid touching these sorts of high touch surfaces in public places, such as door handles, handrails and elevator buttons. It’s best to use tissues or your sleeve where possible as a barrier. It’s here the coronavirus can linger. And, in addition to this, try to minimise touching your face, especially the ‘t-zone’ with unclean hands — your mouth, eyes and nose consist of mucous membranes which are where viruses and bacteria can thrive.
Sometimes it’s best to avoid the crowds
Under new national guidelines by the government, aged care providers are urged to limit the number of visitations to their facilities in an attempt to prevent and control the spread of COVID-19 to the elderly. Given this recommendation, it’s wise for those who are most vulnerable, to limit physical contact and visitations from others where possible and avoid busy or crowded spaces. It’s important to note that the risk of transmitting respiratory viruses can increase in enclosed, crowded spaces with poor ventilation. So, it’s best to take the right precautions and government advice if you yourself feel like you may be at risk.
Have you got a plan B?
For the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions, it’s wise to have a plan in place in the case you start to show flu-like or coronavirus symptoms. Consult with your healthcare provider for more information about monitoring symptoms and what to do if this occurs. Be sure to stay in touch with friends, family and neighbours via email or phone — you may need their help in the event you fall ill. If you have a caregiver (or are one yourself), it’s even more important to have steps in place just in case you contract COVID-19.
Keep up the hygiene
We’re sure everyone is sick of hearing it, but it’s important. Washing your hands regularly and thoroughly is one of the most effective ways to stop the spread of the virus. The Centre of Disease Control and Prevention recommend those at higher risk wash their hands often with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds, especially after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing, or having been in a public place. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitiser that contains at least 60 per cent alcohol.
It’s important to remember that hygiene doesn’t start and finish at the hands, but should also encompass regular showering, changing of bedding and clothes, and the regular replacement of toothbrushes – particularly if you’re showing any signs of sickness. If you do feel unwell or have flu-like symptoms, keep some distance from others and avoid visiting elderly friends and family. But most importantly, remain calm, keep in contact with loved ones via phone and maintain a thorough hygiene routine.
Your oral hygiene is just as crucial
The elderly should be vigilant with their oral care as well, and that means properly cleaning removable dental appliances such as dentures. Studies have shown that an increase in microbial contamination of dentures over time will increase your susceptibility to diseases. Therefore, the frequent, thorough cleaning of dentures and partial dentures can help prevent the spread of germs and bacteria. The Dr Mark’s HyGenie range has been specifically designed for optimum home care of your dentures and other removable dental appliances. The SureGrip denture brush has been designed to make hand brushing your dental appliance easy and comfortable, even for those who may suffer from arthritic conditions. When used daily with Dr Mark’s DentalFresh, removable dental appliances will stay clean, sanitised and minty fresh.
Protect yourself with Dr Mark’s
You might have your normal hygiene routine that you follow on a day-to-day basis, but now might be the time to take it one step further and be more vigilant as we navigate through this international crisis. The Dr Mark’s HyGenie system is proven to be twice as quick* and more effective in cleaning your dentures than leading soaking tablets on the market. So, if you’re looking for a faster, better way to clean your dentures or other removable dental appliances, shop the Dr Mark’s HyGenie range today.
DR MARK’S – PEAK DENTURE CARE BUNDLE
*An ATP, ADP, AMP hygiene monitoring system was used to measure the surface levels of ATP, ADP and AMP (bodily fluids, blood, microorganisms and the like) before and after dental appliance cleaning using typical protocols and before and after dental appliance cleaning using the recommended Dr Mark’s HyGenie protocols. All tests were conducted in consistent conditions and supervised by an Australian Registered Oral Therapist. Your results may vary.
