Showering Tips for Dementia Care: Simplify and Support Personal Hygiene
Dementia is a progressive condition that affects memory, thinking, and the ability to perform everyday tasks, including maintaining personal hygiene. Showering can be especially challenging for individuals with dementia, but with the right approach, it can be made easier and more comfortable for both the person and their caregiver.
Establish a Routine
Creating a consistent showering routine can help reduce confusion and anxiety for those with dementia. Aim to schedule showers at the same time every other day to provide a sense of stability and control. Most doctors agree daily showering is not necessary or healthy for the skin.
Simplify the Process
Break down the showering process into simple, easy-to-follow steps. Use clear instructions and avoid complex language. Visual aids can be very helpful for someone with dementia. Use pictures before showering or gestures during the process to illustrate the next steps involved in showering. You can also label toiletries and other items in the bathroom to help the person with dementia find what they need in the earlier stages.
Create a comfortable environment
Make your bathroom a calming space by using soft lighting, playing soothing music, and keep the room very warm. You should feel hot. A shower chair can provide stability and support for someone with dementia, making showering easier and more comfortable. Ensure that the chair is sturdy and secure and that the person with dementia is comfortable sitting in it. A hand towel can be placed on the seat if it’s too cold. As an alternative, run very warm water over the chair to warm it just before your loved one gets in.
Use a shower chair
A shower chair can provide stability and support for someone with dementia, making showering easier and more comfortable. Ensure that the chair is sturdy and secure and that the person with dementia is comfortable sitting in it. A hand towel can be placed on the seat if it’s too cold. As an alternative, run very warm water over the chair to warm it just before your loved one gets in.
Keep the Bathroom Clutter-Free
A tidy, clutter-free bathroom reduces confusion and makes the space easier to navigate. Provide reassurance and take the process slowly to minimize stress and anxiety.
By following these tips, you can help someone with dementia maintain their personal hygiene while reducing the stress associated with showering.
Debbie Compton
I am an author, speaker, caregiver, and Grammy. The latter is by far the most fun! Having been a primary caregiver 3x, I realized so many lessons were learned too late to benefit my Dad who passed of Parkinson's Disease. I resolved to write a book to make life easier and safer for other caregivers that would get them ideas, inspiration, and lessons learned. It's called "Caregiving: How To Hold On While Letting Go" available on Amazon. I am a Certified Caregiver Consultant and Advocate as well as a Community Educator for the Alzheimer's Assoc. and Founder of The PurpleVine LLC
