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What You Need to Know About Hand Sanitizer

You may be aware that one of the best ways for your older family member to stay safe from the coronavirus is through washing their hands with soap and water frequently. However, when soap and water aren’t available, hand sanitizer will do. That sounds pretty simple, right? Well, yes and no. There are actually several things that you should know about hand sanitizer to ensure your loved one is using it correctly and safely, like the facts discussed below.

Choose Soap and Water Before Sanitizer Whenever Possible

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Soap and water are more effective than hand sanitizers at removing certain kinds of germs.” Part of the reason for this is that many people don’t use enough sanitizer or wipe it off before it has dried.

Hand Sanitizer Doesn’t Clean Hands

Alcohol-based hand sanitizer is capable of killing germs, but it won’t get the senior’s hands clean. If their hands are visibly dirty or greasy, don’t expect a hand sanitizer to remove the dirt or grease. In fact, experts say that hand sanitizer won’t work as well when hands are dirty. They also cannot remove dangerous chemicals the senior may have come into contact with, such as pesticides.

In Some Situations, Hand Sanitizer Is Better

Although soap and water are usually the best, there are certain times that hand sanitizer is the better choice. An example of when a sanitizer is better is when visiting someone who is in the hospital or a nursing home. In those cases, using hand sanitizer when entering the room and again when leaving it can ensure you don’t carry in a dangerous germ or leave with one.

There’s a Right Way to Use Sanitizer

Be sure to read the instructions on the hand sanitizer your aging relative is using. This will help you to know how much should be used. Once the appropriate amount of hand sanitizer is applied, it should be rubbed into the entire hand—between the fingers, the backs of the hands, and the palms. Continue to rub in the sanitizer until hands are dry.

Whether using soap and water or hand sanitizer, a home care provider can help your older family member to keep their hands clean and germ-free, helping to prevent coronavirus. Home care providers can remind seniors when it is time to wash their hands. If the older adult has difficulty washing their hands on their own, the home care provider can assist them, making sure they use enough soap or sanitizer to remove germs.