Loved ones who are subjected to bed rest after surgery, affected by a disabling disease, or another health condition may not be able to care for themselves and will need your help. Caring for your loved one may not be easy, but learning your options, including home health care, can put you in the best position to make it more manageable.

A Guide to Caring for a Bedridden Loved One

1. Grooming & Hygiene

Your loved one may have a hard time getting out of bed and most likely will need your help to complete their hygiene and grooming needs. If they’re able to walk, assist them with their daily bath. Make sure to also address dental, hair, nail care, as well as provide them with a change of clothes.

2. Change Bed Linens

Confined to their beds for many hours each day, bedridden loved ones need their sheets and pillowcases changed more regularly. This will avoid built up soiling from food and other particles. Examine and include other bedding materials, such as comforters and fitted sheets.

3. Good Nutrition

One of the best ways to help your bedridden loved one is to oversee their nutrition to help them stay in good health. Whether recovering from surgery or to keep to a specific diet, balanced meals will help them stay healthy.

4. Prevent Bedsores

Long periods of bed rest create pressure ulcers due to cut off blood circulation on certain bones in combination with friction from the bed itself. To avoid them, you’ll need to move your loved one or, if they’re mobile, ask your loved one to switch body positions occasionally.

5. Hire Help

As much as you want to do everything to help your loved one by yourself, don’t be afraid to seek extra help. A home health care professional with years of experience and training will give you time to rest and have peace of mind that your loved one is in good hands.

If you need help caring for a bedridden loved one, trust the caring and qualified professionals at Deer Valley Home Health Services in Berkeley, St. Charles, and St. Louis, MO. For over 10 years, they have provided seniors with the care they need to thrive in their own home and communities. From home health care and assisted living services to disabled adult and youth care, they can help. Call (314) 355-3679 today to speak to a representative about your options or visit their website for more information about their home health care services.