Showering when Dementia is present

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Dementia is a progressive condition that affects a person's memory, thinking, and ability to carry out everyday tasks. One of the challenges that people with dementia face is maintaining their personal hygiene. Taking a shower can be particularly challenging, as it involves multiple steps and can be overwhelming for someone with dementia. However, there are several tips that can make showering easier and more comfortable for someone with dementia and their caregiver.

Establish a routine

Establishing a routine can help someone with dementia feel more in control of their daily activities. Try to schedule showering at the same time every other day, and stick to a consistent routine. This can help to minimize confusion and anxiety.  Most doctors agree daily showering is not necessary or even healthy for the skin.

Keep it simple

Simplify the showering process by breaking it down into small steps. Use clear and simple instructions and avoid using complex language or abstract concepts.

Use visual aids

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

The bathroom can be an overwhelming and intimidating environment for someone with dementia. Try to create a comfortable and calming environment by using soft lighting, playing soothing music, and keeping the temperature very warm. (You should be too hot.)

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.

Avoid using shower gel or shampoo with strong fragrances

Strong fragrances can be overwhelming and unpleasant for someone with dementia. Use unscented or lightly scented products instead.

Keep the bathroom clutter-free

A cluttered bathroom can be confusing and overwhelming for your loved one. Keep the bathroom clean and tidy, and remove any unnecessary items.

Provide reassurance and support

Showering can be a stressful and anxiety-inducing experience for someone with dementia. Provide reassurance and support throughout the process, and avoid rushing or pressuring your loved one.

In summary, showering can be a challenging task for someone with dementia, but there are several tips that can make the process easier and more comfortable. By establishing a routine, keeping it simple, using visual aids, creating a comfortable environment, using a shower chair, avoiding strong fragrances, keeping the bathroom clutter-free, and providing reassurance and support, you can help someone with dementia maintain their personal hygiene and feel more in control of their daily activities.

 

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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

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