For some people with Alzheimer’s disease, bathing can even be a frightening experience. A bath is almost always better than a shower, however. A person with Alzheimer’s disease may confuse a shower with being in a rain storm.
Don’t try to pull the person with Alzheimer’s disease into your reality. Maybe they don’t really need a bath every day. You might think about just giving a sponge bath on some days, for instance.
The following are some tips that may help you with bathing a loved one who has Alzheimer’s:
- Make bathing part of a regular routine. Pick a time of day that is quiet and calm. Routines help people with Alzheimer's disease a lot. Maybe you can bathe at regular times with regular cues, perhaps after a meal or a favorite TV show.
- Remember privacy matters. You should be aware that, for a person with Alzheimer’s disease, bathing might feel like a scary or embarrassing request. Try letting the person get into the bath with some light clothes on — and always try to be calm, gentle, and respectful while you help them.
- Make sure the bath is warm, but not too hot. The bathroom should be a comfortable temperature for your loved one. By taking steps to eliminate anything that will make the person physically uncomfortable, you will help to reassure them emotionally.
- Put safety first. You should always think safety first. Never leave a person with Alzheimer’s disease alone in the bath. You can also make bathrooms safer by installing handrails and putting down nonskid safety mats.
Dementia Signage for the Home
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