Dementia patients can become agitated when being bathed; a stressful situation for the senior and the caregiver. The process involved in the act of bathing needs to be person centered.
Bathing is usually a relaxing activity for people, but for dementia patients and their caregivers it can become a physical and emotional struggle. Tailoring the bathing experience to the habits of the person is essential. For example, don’t give baths if the person enjoyed showers. Bathing at the time of day that is customary for the person also makes a difference.
During my many years of care giving, teaching and counseling caregivers and professionals, I have found that some basic practices can ease the stress of bathing.
Dignity and hygiene must work hand-in-hand when it comes to bathing, so creating a regimen that alleviates stress for dementia patients and caregivers is important. Bathing and hygiene can become a battleground, but individualized, tailored interventions can minimize the risk factors and stress.