BATHING TIPS FOR DEMENTIA CAREGIVERS

Bathing those with dementia, Alzheimer’s or seniors with limited mobility can be a battle… Here are some quick tips!

1. Plan the bath or shower for the time of day when the person is most calm and agreeable. Be consistent. Try to develop a routine.

2. Respect the fact that bathing is scary and uncomfortable for some people with Alzheimer’s. Be gentle and respectful. Be patient and calm.

3. Tell the person what you are going to do, step by step, and allow him or her to do as much as possible.

4. Prepare in advance. Make sure you have everything you need ready and in the bathroom before beginning. Draw the bath ahead of time.

5. Be sensitive to the temperature. Warm up the room beforehand if necessary and keep extra towels and a robe

nearby. Test the water temperature before beginning the bath or shower.

6. Minimize safety risks by using a handheld showerhead, shower bench, grab bars, and nonskid bath mats. Never leave the person alone in the bath or shower.7. Try a sponge bath. Bathing may not be necessary every day. A sponge bath can be effective between showers or baths.Working out is good for you in more ways than we can count, but a new study may have uncovered a new perk for people with memory problems.
MindCare offers helpful products and instructional materials about bathroom safety for those with dementia, Alzheimer’s and seniors with other memory-related or physical limitations. Find more bathroom safety products and books HERE!