Why is Bathing So Difficult?

People with Alzheimer's Disease sometimes have difficulty remembering good hygiene and may refuse to bathe. Bathing may have become too complicated to complete. Your loved one may fear water or feel a loss of privacy. If your loved one has vision problems, this can make it difficult to distinguish the shape of the tub or shower. Your loved one may have forgotten how to operate a faucet or may no longer remember how to bathe. As Alzheimer's disease progresses, poor coordination can add to your loved one's fear.

• Try to avoid discussing the need for a bath, but simply state, “It's bath time." This can be more effective if you establish a routine for a bathing time and place. So try to do that as well.
• Try labeling toiletry items to help your loved one identifyand use them appropriately. 
• Remember to remove the lock from the bathroom door.
• Put away potentially dangerous items such as razors and electrical appliances, such as a hair dryer.
• You may also want to lock cabinets.