Lichaamszorg

Lichaamszorg is the aspect of health and social care that focuses on helping individuals with personal hygiene and the maintenance of physical well‑being. It is provided by trained professionals such as nurses, verzorgenden (care workers), and home-care aides, as well as family carers, in settings like hospitals, care homes, and private homes.

Scope and tasks include bathing or showering, oral hygiene, grooming (hair and nail care), skincare and moisturizing, dressing, and assistance with toilet and continence management. It also covers positioning, warmth, and comfort, as well as monitoring for skin integrity and signs of discomfort or illness. In some cases, tasks may extend to wound dressing or dressing changes under supervision. Lichaamszorg emphasizes preserving privacy, dignity, autonomy, and consent.

Techniques and safety are grounded in person‑centred approaches. Procedures follow infection prevention standards, safe handling and transfer techniques, skin assessment for breakdown, and the use of assistive devices such as shower chairs or hoists as needed. Documentation and communication with the care team are important for continuity of care.

Education and regulation: in the Netherlands, Lichaamszorg is taught to care professionals as part of vocational training for caregivers and is guided by professional standards and health‑safety regulations. Providers must respect cultural norms, privacy, and the rights of the person receiving care.

Importance: proper Lichaamszorg supports physical health, comfort, and psychological well‑being, reduces infection and complications, and helps maintain independence and dignity for clients. See also: personal care, nursing, home care.