Thursday, October 2, 2008

Helping dementia victims overcome fears of bathing

dailybreeze.com
By Helen Dennis
Article Launched: 10/01/2008 09:28:11 PM PDT

Several tips recommended by the Alzheimer's Association and the Alzheimer's Society of Canada may remove some of the fears and barriers to bathing:

Bathing should be a regular routine, done at the same time of day and using the same steps.

Prepare the bath ahead of time, laying out the soap, washcloth, shampoo and towels, and have the water in the tub.

Make the bath warm and inviting; provide adequate lighting.

Respect the need for modesty. Allow the person to bathe in underwear, a swimsuit or wrapped in a towel.

Use large beach towels or bath blankets that completely wrap around the person to ensure privacy and warmth.

Try using a hand-held showerhead and make sure the spray is not too strong.

Lay a towel or colored tape on the tub to distinguish the edge.

Consider sponge-bathing if the individual resists a bath or shower.

Stay calm and move step by step in the......
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