Bathing is one of the most challenging aspects of caring for a person suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. Because bathing is a personal and intimate experience, people who have dementia may perceive being bathed as threatening and unpleasant.

As the Alzheimer’s patient is being bathed, he or she may become resistant. This type of behavior can occur when the person does not recall what bathing is. Or she might not have the patience anymore to endure being seen naked in front of another person. Also, the warm water or cold air could make her uncomfortable. The loss of independence and lack of privacy that comes with dementia can be very difficult for the person as she is being bathed, too.

It is vital to not take the disruptive behavior being exhibited personally. You need to stay flexible, calm and patient as you bathe your patient or loved one.

When you start to bathe the person, it is important to remember to let her do as much as she can. You should be ready to help if it is needed. But try to only offer the amount of help that is needed. At first, the patient may only need you to remind her to bathe. As the disease gets further along, she will need to be helped more.

Here are some key tips to remember as you start the bathing process:

  1. Gather all bathing supplies early. Have big towels, shampoo and soap ready to go.
  2. Make the room comfy. Pad the seat of the shower and any other cold, hard surfaces with big towels.
  3. Put soap and shampoo in easy reach. It is a good idea to have little containers of shampoo available for quick and easy use with one hand. Also, have a wash cloth there to cover up the eyes to prevent the soap from stinging.
  4. Keep careful eye on the water temperature. The patient may not be able to sense when the water is too hot. She also may fight bathing if the water is too cold.

As the bath begins, it is important to let the patient feel she has choices. Ask her if she would rather take a shower or a bath, or if she wants to take a bath now or in 20 minutes. Also, remember:

  • Put only two or three inches of water in the tub. Now you should assess how she reacts to getting into the water.
  • Make sure she has a job to do. Have her hold the wash cloth or the bottle of shampoo.
  • Remember that she may think of the bath as a threat. Be ready to have things to do if she starts to get upset. You might try singing with her or play music.

There are many helpful Alzheimer’s bathing supplies and aids available to help you in your bathing process. Some of the Alzheimer’s aids include: