Bathing older people may be challenging. Bath time is challenging for carers and can upset their elderly patients. Naturally, individuals detest taking baths or showers as they age, stopping all hygienic practices that might lead to infections and skin issues., which is a problem. Treatment for skin disorders can be complex.
Before giving some advice on the first thing to do before bathing an elderly patient, let’s take a closer look at some of their challenges.
Problems that Seniors Have with Bathing
Seniors resist taking showers for a variety of reasons. Some older people with Alzheimer’s or dementia may struggle or even refuse to take a bath. The sound of the running water can terrify them. They might be afraid of the feeling of the water.
Seniors might dream about drowning or getting pulled down the shower drain. As a result, they refuse to take showers or baths. Many older adults have pain when bending over or rising, which may discourage them from cleaning themselves. Showering becomes tiresome, draining, and challenging.
Some seniors find cold or warm water unpleasant, while some worry about restroom mishaps like slipping or falling. Some older people are plain obstinate and won’t take a bath. Many claim they are in charge of their hygiene and will choose when and if to clean.
This sentence doesn’t fit here; make it the last sentence of this para. Bathing is much more challenging for older people who suffer from memory disorders. Seniors not taking a bath is a significant problem. Seniors often completely forget when they last cleaned or cannot recall it.
So how can you persuade a senior to take a bath? Keep reading for some great advice.
Communicate & Encourage Them
Communicate with them. This makes it easier for you, the assistant, to comprehend why the person refuses to take a bath. You’ll be able to persuade them to take a bath by stressing how crucial it is to understand their sentiments. They are more inclined to take a shower when you reassure them with a kind, constructive approach.
Being nice is what you desire; you want to prevent a nagging voice. Additionally, discuss with them the consequences of not having a shower and the necessity of doing so. They will better comprehend the need for a bath if you can help them see two possible possibilities.
Talk To Doctor
They may assist you in persuading the senior to take a shower by working with the doctor who treats your elders. Medical Supply Store Cary, The senior’s personality and medical history are known to the doctor, who can use this information to influence them to take a bath. The doctor’s recommendation will probably be followed by your senior instead of yours.
Use Right Products & Equipment
You want to provide your seniors with the best bathing experience possible. Purchase the appropriate tools, such as a bath lift chair, handheld showerheads, and shower seats. Seniors find bathing laborious, especially if they suffer from severe back or knee problems. Even bending poses a risk.
Seniors will feel safer and more at ease thanks to the equipment, which will also increase their willingness to take showers. Try to purchase something they will adore as well. Bathing will also be easier for them if they have their preferred brand or smell of soap.
Respect Senior’s Privacy
Being a caregiver requires patience. Seniors like to complete tasks on their schedule and at their own speed. It will help if you show as much respect for that as you can. You must provide the senior citizen with the freedom to take a shower when you persuade them to do so. They must not be hurried, and you should give them alternatives rather than directives.
For instance, inquire as to whether the senior would want to take a shower before, after, or during lunch or supper. Respecting your seniors’ privacy is important because you want them to feel at ease. Allowing them to shower in their clothes will foster mutual respect and trust.
Make a Routine
You should develop a routine with the senior in your care. Something to which you can both commit. The bathing debate should finally be over. Inquire with your senior about their preferred shower time—do they like the morning or the evening? They might use this to mentally and physically prepare for the next shower. A timetable is essential for the elderly, especially those who have dementia.
Make Suitable Bathroom Temperature
Tell your senior that you would warm the bathroom before they take a shower if they detest taking a bath because they don’t want to be chilly. Turn on the heat for ten minutes before the senior enters the restroom. Additionally, cover your patient with a large towel, preferably two, as quickly as possible.
Make Everything Ready Before Bath
Make sure everything is prepared and easily accessible. You cannot leave the senior’s side while they are in the bathtub since you forgot something. It would be best to keep shampoo, sponges, and washcloths on hand. The elder will be physically and mentally ready when they observe you getting ready for a bath. The bath will go more smoothly and quickly if everything is prepared.
Bottom Line
Bathing older people may be challenging. It gets tiresome depending on how they feel, how helpful they are, and whether they have blisters or rashes. Making your patient feel at ease and appreciated is essential. Imagine yourself or a loved one in that circumstance. What kind of treatment would you want for them?
An older adult could feel ashamed about taking a bath because it is a private, delicate, and intimate action. Make sure you speak in a calm, upbeat manner throughout the procedure; you should reassure the seniors and motivate them to take a shower.
Bring in some support if you are having trouble encouraging them to want to take a shower. It may be a doctor, acquaintance, or member of their family. Seniors are often more likely to pay attention to someone they know and trust. They might not immediately trust you as a nursing assistant, but you will earn their confidence with time. Accurate Med Supply is also a good option if you want to hire a professional caregiver for your loved ones.
