A hair care basket

It's extremely helpful to have everything you need to care for your parent's hair in one portable place, so you can tote it as needed to the bathroom, bedroom, or a big comfy chair in front of the TV. Look for a plastic basket (which is waterproof and ideal for shampoo time) with a carry handle. A variety of sizes, styles, and colors are sold at most houseware, drug, and hardware stores.

The "right" brush and comb

Sounds easy enough, but people who are sick, frail, or have dementia can be super-sensitive to touch, viewing combs and brushes as dreaded objects of pain. If this describes your parent, buy the softest brush you can find -- baby brushes are worth a try. Also check what's available at any medical supply store. Avoid small pocket-style combs with thin, crowded teeth, which pull at hair more than larger combs with more space between the teeth. Hair picks can pull less than regular combs. Or skip combing altogether, and just use a brush.

Shampoo

It's always a good idea to use your parent's preferred shampoo -- if you know what it is. Ask, or rummage around the house to see what your parent buys. Familiar products can be reassuring to anyone who's sick or disabled, so familiar smells, colors, and packaging are comforting. If you're trying to avoid water, no-rinse shampoos are available at medical supply and some drug stores. Baby shampoo is a good choice if your parent has sensitive or dry skin.