Conditioner

Use the same rule of thumb as applies to shampoo: Try to use your parent's favorite old standby. This gives her a sense of control, even if it's indirect, over her personal care. Your parent may have never used conditioner, but if she's spending more time in bed now than before, her hair is more prone to tangles, especially where it rubs against the pillow. Conditioner can help prevent tangling. Other handy time-savers include two-in-one shampoo-conditioners, which only require one rinse, and leave-in conditioners. However, these products can leave a residue over time.

Sprays, gels, detanglers, and other favorite potions and lotions

Let's face it, many hair care styling products really aren't needed; hair can stay neat and attractive without them. But if a little extra grooming time makes your parent feel better, go for it. Try to follow usual routines. If your dad has always liked to slick back his hair with a dab of cream, do this for him. If your mom is into a generous layer of hair spray, plug your nose -- ready, set, aim. When someone's body is weakening, small sprucing-up gestures can boost self-esteem. But if your parent doesn't like his head or hair touched, avoid the extras and stick with the simplest routine.

A shower cap

Not long ago, waterproof shower caps were standard fare for women. A woman would get her hair shampooed and styled once a week at the beauty shop. Then she'd wear her shower cap during bathing to protect her "do" until the next hair appointment. If this sounds like your mom, she may be more comfortable with this routine if she's still going out for hair appointments, and even if you're the one doing the weekly wash and style at home. There may be times when your dad prefers not to get his head wet during bathing, too.