Have you ever wondered how people with physical disabilities manage to stay clean when hand washing is such a challenge?
For many people, washing their hands is as easy as turning on the faucet, grabbing some soap, and scrubbing. But for persons with physical disabilities, the process can be much more difficult.
Some people with disabilities may have difficulty reaching the sink or faucet. Others may have difficulty turning the faucet on or off. Still, others may have difficulty rubbing their hands together effectively.
In addition, people with physical disabilities may have weakened immune systems, making them more susceptible to infection. This makes it even more important for them to wash their hands frequently and thoroughly.
Despite the challenges, people with physical disabilities find ways to maintain their hygiene – and how do they manage?
They develop adaptive techniques for washing their hands. For example, they may use a long-handled brush to reach their back or they may make changes to the home environment i.e. installing grab bars in the bathroom and raising the toilet seat.
There are also a variety of assistive devices available to help them wash their hands, such as hands-free faucets, soap dispensers, and paper towel dispensers. These devices can make it easier for people with limited mobility or weakened grip strength to wash their hands independently.