A nonskid throw rug for the bathroom floor

Choose a simple bathroom rug with a rubberized or plastic bottom that will stay put even when it's wet.

A generous supply of dry towels and washcloths

You'll need these for washing, covering, and drying off your parent. Keep them within easy reach, so you won't have to stop everything and run to the closet.

A warm bathrobe and slippers

To keep your parent warm and dry, choose familiar, comfortable clothes, even if they're well worn. An absorbent terry cloth robe is great after stepping out of a bath.

A change of clothes for yourself

No matter how hard you try, bathing someone else can leave you drenched. A change of clothes may come in handy. Consider changing into an outfit that can get wet before you start the bath, then changing back into your street clothes afterward.