Bathing and Dementia

Although bathing may seem like an easy activity, it is quite complex. A variety of distinctive parts of the brain must work together to complete the task. As dementia affects more parts of the brain, bathing can eventually become harder for the person to complete independently. There are also safety and privacy issues to consider. 

It is important to develop some strategies and techniques for making bathing confortable and safe for both you and the person you are caring for. This section offers recommendations and tips that you may find helpful. Eveyone's situation is different, and some of the suggestions below may be more appropriate for some people than others.

Know their Preferences

  • Make yourself familiar with the person's prefered bathing routine and preferences. For example, perhaps they have always taken a bath on Sunday nights.
  • Do they prefer a shower or bath?
  • A what time of day do they like to bathe?
  • How frequently did they bathe in the past? People vary in how often they choose to wash. Some prefer to do so everyday, whereas others have always bathed less often.
  • Determine whether the person with dementia prefers a female or male to assist them with this particular task.
  • Remember that back strain or injury can happen very easily because of repetitive bending or having to bear the weight of another person. Get assistance if you need it.

Setting the Mood

  • Pull the blinds and close the door to create privacy.
  • Play soft music to create a relaxing environment.
  • Use scented soap and soft towels. Make the experience pleasing to the senses. 
  • Lay out everything you need ahead of time (for example, soap, wash cloth, shampoo, and towels).
  • Remove anything from the bathroom which may distract the person from the task at hand.
  • Start with a gentle invitation such as "I have a nice warm bath ready for you."

Safety Considerations

  • Always provide adequate lighting.
  • Ensure that the water is at the right temperature. Consider installing a temperature control device which will limit how hot the water can get.
  • Attach grab rails to make getting in and out of the shower or tub easier and safer.
  • Install a non-slip mat in the shower or tub. Avoid dark colours as they may be mistaken as a hole, which can be frightening.
  • Place a strip of coloured tape around the tub to define edges.
  • Seats are available to go in the shower for comfort and to reduce the risk of falls. They are also handy if the person tires easily.
  • Avoid bath oils which can leave a slippery residue.
  • Remove locks from the bathroom door so that the individual does not get locked in the bathroom.

Managing Resistance

  • Remember that resistance is usually due to fear and anxiety, not a desire to remain unwashed.
  • Avoid using the word “bath” if it creates stress. Try non-threatening phrases such as “wash up” or “get ready for the day”.
  • Allow the person to do as much washing by themselves as possible— provide them with step-by-step instructions.
  • Start by offering the person a warm wash cloth. They may begin washing themselves automatically.
  • It may be easier to reason with the person to wash if they are going out or expecting visitors.
  • Explain each step you are about to do. Any sudden or unexpected movement may be upsetting for the person.
  • If the person resists, try asking at a later time.

Alternative Bathing Methods

  • A detachable showerhead can make washing hair easier. They can also give you better control.
  • Deep bath water can make people worried. They may not be able to judge how deep the water is. Try a shallow bath to reduce anxiety.
  • Separate hair washing from bathing, or consider a dry shampoo. Read more about hair care...
  • Try a sponge bath at the sink if needed.

Additonal Considerations

  • Maintaining dignity and safety should be the priority. Focus on the person first and the task second.
  • The person may be embarrassed to undress in your presence. Allow them to wear undergarments, a bathing suit, or a towel. Move cover-up aside as you wash each area.
  • Remember, it doesn't require a large amount of water to get clean. Careful washing is more important than how much water is used.
  • Depression may be responsible for a loss of interest in
    personal hygiene. Learn more abour depression and dementia...