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At the age of 85 this year, Grandma Li is physically strong and energetic, and is recognized as a model of longevity in the neighborhood. However, a recent incident has left her granddaughter Xiaofang confused.
"Grandma, you haven't taken a shower in three days!" Xiao Fang frowned and said, "If you don't pay attention to hygiene like this, you will get sick." "
Grandma Li smiled disappreciatively: "Silly girl, your grandma and I have lived to this age because I don't like to take a bath!" "
Xiao Fang's eyes widened in surprise: "Grandma, what do you mean by that?" Don't you love cleanliness but live a long life? "
Grandma Li blinked mysteriously: "Don't believe it, I heard that some studies show that the more the elderly don't like to be clean, the healthier they are!" "
These words made Xiao Fang fall into deep confusion. Is that really the case? In order to solve this mystery, Xiaofang decided to seek advice from professionals.
The next day, Xiaofang accompanied Grandma Li to the community hospital for a routine physical examination. Dr. Wang, who is in charge of the medical check-up, is an experienced geriatric specialist. While waiting for the test results, Xiaofang told Dr. Wang what her grandmother said.
After listening to this, Dr. Wang said thoughtfully, "This statement does exist, but we need to understand it more comprehensively." Let's explore this question together. "
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Dr. Wang explains: "Your grandmother may have mentioned a study from Tohoku University in Japan. The study found that older people who bathed less often per week had a lower risk of heart disease and stroke than those who bathed daily. But that doesn't mean we should encourage older people to be unhygienic. "
Xiao Fang asked curiously, "Then how did this study come to this conclusion?" "
Dr. Wang patiently explains: "The research team followed more than 30,000 Japan over the age of 60 for 20 years. They found that people who bathed 1-2 times a week had a 28% lower risk of cardiovascular disease than those who bathed daily. This result is truly surprising. "
When Grandma Li heard this, she said proudly, "Look, I'm right, right? "
Dr. Wang smiled and said, "Grandma Li, you do have a certain point. But we can't simply think that we can live a long life without bathing. There may be a number of complex factors behind this finding. "
Xiao Fang asked, "For example?" "
"For example, older people who bathe a lot may have some underlying health problems that require more frequent body cleansing," Dr Wang explains. Alternatively, frequent bathing may cause dry skin, affecting the skin's protective function. It's also possible that people who don't bathe regularly may live a simpler and less stressful life, which may also have health benefits. "
Grandma Li said thoughtfully, "I see. So how often should we elderly people take a bath? "
Dr. Wong replied, "There is no standard answer to this question, it needs to be based on individual circumstances. In general, older people have drier skin and don't need to bathe every day like younger people. Bathing 2-3 times a week is usually enough. However, if the weather is hot or you sweat a lot, you can increase the frequency of bathing. "
Xiaofang asked, "Is there anything I need to pay attention to when taking a bath?" "
Dr. Wang nodded: "There are indeed some things that the elderly need to pay attention to when taking a bath. The water temperature should not be too high to irritate the skin or cause blood pressure fluctuations. The time should not be too long, 15-20 minutes is enough. Use a mild body wash, dry your body and apply moisturizer after washing. "
Grandma Li said: "I heard that some elderly people are afraid of falling in the bath, so they rarely take a bath, is that right? "
Dr. Wang said solemnly, "This is indeed a problem. The bathroom is a place where the elderly are prone to accidents. But we can't be scared and unhygienic. There are a few things we can do to increase safety, such as installing grab bars in the bathroom, using non-slip mats, or considering a sitz bath. "
Xiao Fang said thoughtfully: "Listening to you say this, I think it's really not easy to take a bath." "
Dr. Wang agrees, "Yes, what seems like a simple bath actually involves a lot of health factors. In addition to cleansing the body, bathing can also help relax the body and mind and improve sleep quality. For some older people, taking a hot bath can also relieve joint pain. "
Grandma Li asked, "So apart from bathing, what other ways can we elderly people stay clean and healthy?" "
Dr. Ong replied, "Daily hygiene is very important. Washing your hands frequently, changing your clothes regularly, and maintaining oral hygiene are all essential. In addition, maintaining a good diet, exercising moderately, and getting enough sleep are all key to maintaining good health. "
Xiaofang added: "I've heard that the elderly need to spend more time in the sun, right? "
Dr. Wang nodded and said, "That's right, moderate sun exposure is good for the elderly. Sunlight helps the body synthesize vitamin D, which is important for bone health. However, pay attention to sun protection and avoid prolonged exposure to the scorching sun. "
Grandma Li suddenly realized: "It turns out that maintaining health is so complicated, it seems that I will have to pay more attention in the future." "
Dr. Wang smiled and said, "Grandma Li, it's good that you have such an understanding. Health is not just a matter of body cleanliness, but a comprehensive concept. including physical health, mental health, and social adjustment. Staying positive, connecting with family and friends, and participating in community events can help us stay physically and mentally healthy. "
When they left the hospital, both Grandma Li and Xiaofang felt that they had gained a lot. This conversation not only clarified their misconceptions about the relationship between bathing and health, but also gave them a more comprehensive understanding of the health management of the elderly.
Since then, Grandma Li has started to take a bath 2-3 times a week as recommended by her doctor and pay attention to bathing safety. She also developed the habit of basking in the sun and taking walks every day, and often practiced tai chi with her neighbors. Xiaofang also takes care of her grandmother more carefully, often chatting with her and taking her to community activities.
Slowly, Grandma Li not only became healthier, but also became happier. She often said: "It turns out that longevity is not just as simple as not taking a bath, but also taking care of yourself in an all-round way!" "
This story tells us that the health management of the elderly is a complex system engineering, which cannot be simply summarized by a certain habit. Everyone's situation is unique and requires a suitable health plan based on the individual's physical condition, lifestyle habits, and environmental factors.
At the same time, we should also be wary of some one-sided health advice. While some studies may come to some surprising conclusions, it is best to think critically when receiving this information and it is best to consult a medical professional.
For older adults, maintaining a moderate cleanliness routine, a balanced diet, proper exercise, adequate sleep, and a positive mindset is a comprehensive approach to maintaining good health. For young people, it is also very important to care for and accompany the elderly and help them establish a scientific health concept.
Let's work together to create a healthy, happy and dignified old age for the elderly!
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