More than any other group, old people will allow their personal grooming habits to lapse. Sometimes, this is caused by depression, but it can also be simply a loss of good habits.

Once accustomed to the work world, where personal appearance can affect a career, seniors often live in an environment where it seems that personal appearance doesn’t matter.

Unfortunately, a shabby look can be off putting to others and lead to loneliness and isolation for the elderly.

Quick Personal Habits Checklist

• Are you clean? Take your shirt off and look at it in a good light. Does it need a wash? Are you wearing clean clothing every day? Do you bathe daily?
• Are you rumpled? Look at your clothing. Would you have worn that to work? Are your glasses crooked? Is your hair tidy?
• Are you hairy? Do you need a shave? On an older person, whiskers can make you look homeless. (This includes women)
• Are you stinky? Do your skin, breath and hair smell clean?

Housekeeping Habits Matter Too

Housekeeping habits can affect how you smell and look. In addition, a clean and tidy environment is always a pleasant experience for visitors.