Personal care refers to the daily support a person may need to stay clean, healthy, safe, and comfortable. It includes help with hygiene such as bathing, hair washing, brushing teeth, and nail care to maintain cleanliness and prevent health problems. It also involves assistance with dressing, ensuring the person wears suitable and comfortable clothing. Personal care covers support with toileting, including continence and stoma care, while maintaining dignity and hygiene. It may include help with mobility, such as getting in and out of bed or using mobility aids safely. Assistance with eating and drinking ensures proper nutrition and hydration, including help with preparing food or feeding when needed.
Additionally, personal care involves support with medication, such as applying creams, giving oral medicines, or administering eye drops as prescribed. Skin care is also part of personal care, including applying lotions or creams to keep the skin healthy and prevent irritation.