Bathing
Comfort | Consistency | Frequency | Safety | Privacy

Comfort.

Many people with dementia are scared of spraying water, especially on the head.

Make sure the bathroom is warm and without drafts. Keep extra towels and a robe nearby. Test the water temperature before beginning the bath or shower.

Can you keep the body parts that aren't being washed covered with towels? It is worth a little extra laundry to have the bath go smoothly.

Does pain interfere with how much your loved one can do for themselves? Maybe two Tylenol about an hour before the bath would make it less painful.

Use soaps that aren't drying to the skin.

Try no-rinse soaps and shampoos, available where medical equipment and supplies are sold.