Bathing Blocks: When an Elder Refuses to Bathe

Sunny-23

4 months ago

Very appropriate for me today. I was thinking about posting this question because I am having an extremely diffiuclt time getting my husband to take a shower. I don't have him shower daily but I do want him to shower a few times a week. But this is a major battle. I don't see any of the suggestions that might apply. He just doesn't remember when he last showered and doesn't want to do it....PERIOD! Sometimes he also has me in tears. This is the most diffiuclt of the issues I have in caring for him. I am wondering if anyone has any additional suggestions. He is usually very pleasant most of the time. I just think that his bodily cleanliness is very important since is in continent in both areas. I don't want any infections to occur.

BillF

over 2 years ago

Great article Kate, I work on two elder care blogs and bathing is always a hot issue for us. A big danger issue that we see is shower doors. They are not strong enough to support the weight of an adult and are often relied upon dangerously. Check out the more here: http://www.rightathome.net/seniorhomecare/?p=155. One of the best tips that we have seen work is to give the elder bathing the most power possible. Let them pick the bathing time and shampoo and soap. This seems to help them feel more comfortable. If you are interested, check out more on our Senior Home Care Blog: http://www.rightathome.net/seniorhomecare. Best, Bill

My Grandmother has Alzheimer's and has gotten to the stage of needing help bathing. Luckily, my mother has a nice big shower, which makes it helpful. But, it is still a process, it takes a long time and is difficult. One thing we like to do for Grandma a few times a week is wash her hair. Even if we don't have time for a shower, having clean hair makes her feel better about herself. We have found a great product on an <a href="http://www.enablemart.com/">assistive technology website</a>. It is called the <a href="http://www.enablemart.com/Catalog/Bathing-Aids/">Comfort Hair Wash Basin</a>, and it works beautifully when doing my Grandmother's hair. On thing to remember, especially for a woman. Having your hair look good, will make you feel better all day long. I hope this helps a few families.