Cleanliness matters more than you might realize, especially in senior living spaces. Unchecked germs can lead to illnesses that are hard for older adults to recover from. Thankfully, there are simple ways to prevent germs in senior living spaces.
Keep High-Touch Areas Clean
Think of all the things you touch during the day. Doorknobs, light switches, handrails, and TV remotes quickly accumulate germs. Wipe down these things with disinfectant wipes or a cleaning solution. Don’t forget your cell phone, which collects bacteria from your hands and surfaces.
Wash Your Hands the Right Way
Proper handwashing is one of the most effective ways to stay healthy. Use soap and warm water, lathering for at least 20 seconds before rinsing. Touchless soap dispensers offer many hygiene benefits in shared bathrooms, such as eliminating contact with the skin. Touchless dispensers have motion sensors, which make them convenient and user-friendly.
Limit Shared Items
Cups, plates, and utensils should never be shared, especially during meals. Everyone should use their own items to reduce the chances of germs traveling from person to person. You can also use hand sanitizer or wash your hands thoroughly before and after meals to prevent the spread of germs.
Improve Indoor Ventilation
Opening windows or using an air purifier can reduce airborne germs. Fresh air circulation maintains a clean environment and prevents indoor spaces from becoming stuffy. If opening windows isn’t an option, use a fan with a filter. You might also use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture in your room, as high humidity encourages the growth of bacteria and mold.
Stay Proactive With Cleanliness
With these simple ways to prevent germs in senior living spaces, you can develop good habits that benefit your health. Focus on making these small changes so that you and your neighbors can live more comfortably.
