The sense of touch allows us to identify changes in our bodies, both internally and externally. Without it, it can be hard to tell the difference between hot and warm or cold and cool. This can be dangerous as it can lead to burns, hypothermia, or frostbite. It can also become difficult to feel or recognize pain in the body. This can leading to unintentional neglect of serious issues. Seniors Helping Seniors® caregivers can help to manage safety concerns and help coping with a loss of touch.
Start with these tips:
- Lower the temperature on the water heater to no higher than 120 degrees. This is to prevent accidental burns.
- Check the outside temperature before leaving the house, Then dress for what the thermometer says, not how hot or cold it feels.
- Inspect skin regularly, especially the feet, for injuries. If you find an injury, it is important to treat it even if it feels painful or not.
One effect that isn’t often addressed about losing the sense of touch, is its relation to mental wellbeing. Every person needs to feel the presence of others, even if through a simple shoulder pat or back rub. In addition to overseeing physical safety, our caregivers provide the compassion needed for care receivers to remain mentally fit as well. Both of these are crucial in allowing those we serve to continue an independent lifestyle.
Contact us and we can help you maintain an independent lifestyle. We will pair you with a companion to help you maintain your independent lifestyle but still be able to help recognize issues like coping with loss of touch and help you deal with this issue before it becomes serious.