Are Bidets Good for Elderly Adults?

If you have traveled almost anywhere in Europe, you have most likely seen a bidet sitting next to the regular toilet. While bidets are very popular in Europe, for whatever reason they never quite caught on in America. Though they might feel a little unusual at first, a bidet is actually a great tool for the elderly who are struggling with hygiene as they age.

Bidets are a great way to freshen up after toileting. Using toilet paper after toileting can become more difficult as we age due to arthritis and decreasing mobility. Many seniors are reluctant to ask for help in the bathroom because they want to maintain their privacy or they find heeding the help to be embarrassing.

It is also perfectly OK to admit as a caregiver that helping your elderly loved one with their toileting needs is not your favorite part of the day – this is a judgment free zone.

Unfortunately when personal hygiene becomes more challenging, it also becomes even more important. Lack of cleaning up after toileting can lead to urinary tract infections, skin issues or other problems. That is when a bidet for seniors can come in handy. 

Best Bidet for Elderly

So far when you’re thinking about a bidet you’re probably thinking of a separate bowl next to the toilet. While these will make your bathroom look and feel fancy and European, they take up space you may not have and can be extremely costly to install. It could also be difficult for your elderly loved one to move from toilet to bidet. After all, bathrooms are the number one area for senior falls, which we want to avoid. That’s why we recommend a bidet attachment.

Bidet attachments are typically less than $50 and are easy for you to install – no plumber required. You can find a ton of different options, including electric bidet attachments that heat the water for you. You can also try a bidet seat that fits directly over your toilet seat. A big bonus benefit of using an electric bidet seat is a warm toilet seat in the winter. 

What Is It Like Using a Bidet?

Bidets are safe and easy to use. Most people who use bidets feel cleaner than when they use traditional toilet paper and wet wipes. Yes, it may feel a little strange or uncomfortable at first. It is literally a gentle stream of water that cleans the perineal area, something you have probably not felt before. But the extra cleanliness a bidet provides along with not needing to reach or bend to get cleaned up after toileting will definitely outweigh the initial weird sensations. 

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If your elderly loved one is struggling with toileting, consider getting a bidet attachment or seat to help them (and you) out. You may ultimately decide you like it too!

To learn more about our home care services, contact our caregiving team today at 1-800-GRISWOLD or find a Caregiver near you.