For seniors recovering from a fall, managing laundry can be challenging. This article provides practical tips for caregivers to make laundry tasks easier and safer during the recovery period.
After a fall, seniors may experience difficulty with physical tasks like lifting laundry baskets or bending over to load and unload the washing machine. Caregivers can assist by simplifying the laundry process, such as using lightweight baskets that are easier to carry and reducing the number of loads required. It’s also helpful to sort laundry in advance and ensure that clothing is easy to identify and manage. For example, consider using color-coded or labeled laundry bags for different types of clothes, making it easier for both the senior and caregiver to stay organized. If the senior is in bed most of the time, caregivers can arrange to have the laundry done by someone else, whether it be a family member, paid service, or a local community program. Additionally, it’s important to make sure that the laundry area is well-lit and free of obstacles to prevent accidents during the washing process.