Have you noticed an elderly loved one is no longer bathing? You might also have seen bumps, bruises, or even discovered a recent hospital visit. 

When an elderly parent isn’t bathing, it is usually a symptom of a more significant issue. 

It is critical to consult with a physician to get to the root of the problem. For example, a person with dementia may genuinely not realize they have not bathed recently. A person with depression may need medication and counseling. Someone experiencing pain may need pain relief and therapy or surgery to fix the issue causing discomfort. And all elderly need home safety adjustments to make bathing safe to reduce falls and fear.

Lack of bathing might also signal that a family caregiver needs support and your loved one needs home health care. Home health care brings skilled support into the home to aid with bathing, toileting, medication management, and more. 

Eventually, family caregivers cannot manage their loved one’s needs as illnesses progress or falls increase. So do not wait to get the in-home support needed for seniors to thrive. 

The elderly stop bathing when:

  • They are experiencing depression.
  • They are afraid of falling.
  • They are unable to bathe without pain.
  • They are exhausted and cannot complete all the tasks of bathing.
  • They are moving into a new stage of dementia or Alzheimer’s. 

How to help an elderly parent bathe:

Bathing is a common frustration for family caregivers. Here are quick tips to encourage your elderly loved one to get clean.

  1. Encourage getting clean for an outing. Have dates on the calendar they can look forward to.
  2. Wash up together if you are caring for a spouse. 
  3. Give simple instructions. Create a simple routine that is easy for your loved one to do independently or with a bit of help. You can talk them through the steps as they shower, and you stand in the doorway.
  4. Add safety tools like a support handle, seat, and antislip mat. Make it easy for your loved one to maintain their independence and confidence.
  5. Hire bathing assistance through home health care. When you can no longer manage this process on your own, consider home health care.

How to get someone with dementia to shower:

Staying clean is important to reduce infections and prevent unpleasant odors, but this is easier said than done when a loved one has dementia. To avoid hostility and a battle, try using the tips below. If you cannot manage this process alone, it’s time for home health care.

  1. Establish a daily routine. Daily routines make a big difference for someone with dementia, so even if your loved one doesn’t need a daily bath, a schedule can prevent major meltdowns.
  2. Use positive reinforcement and don’t argue. Skip the conversation about how long it’s been or whether they smell. Focus on keeping the activity positive.
  3. Say “we” and not “you.” Keep calm, use a soothing tone, and convey that you are doing a relaxing activity together.
  4. Make the bathroom a comfortable space. Five to ten minutes before the shower, add a space heater to the room so they don’t shiver, lay a towel on the toilet seat so they aren’t cold while undressing, and you can even play soft music.
  5. Use a hand-held showerhead and a seat to reduce fear. Seniors are often afraid of falling and the above head spray can scare someone with dementia. Allow your loved on to sit while showering and use a hand-held showerhead to assist with bathing. 
  6. Keep steps simple and easy. Create a routine that is simple and easy to execute for both of you to keep everyone calm.
  7. Use extra towels for comfort and warmth. You can use towels to cover body parts that are not being washed to keep them comfortable, warm, and calm.  

 

 

Choosing long-term care is a burden that often falls to adult children and family caregivers. Our team is here to support you throughout the journey. Download our booklet to explore options that are right for your aging loved one and family. Download the booklet here.