People Living with Dementia May Fight Bathing: Compassion, Education Can Help

Many older adults may not bathe as often as younger people think they should, but what about people living with dementia? Here lies a much greater challenge. People living with Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia will often refuse or even physically lash out when pushed to shower or bathe. This behavior frustrates well-meaning family caregivers no end. They worry that their family member may have increased urinary infections or even skin infections when regularly bathing doesn’t happen. Understandably, too, they would like their loved one freshened up, not only for themselves but also for others. What to do? As with most dementia-related challenges, there are no miracles, and what works one day may not the next. However, there are some things that you can try. Most of these tips stem from increased knowledge about what can trigger a rebellion in a person living with dementia. Let’s take a look. Making bathing easier for people living with dementia (and their caregivers) Since it’s good practice to try to discover what lies behind your loved one’s behavior you could look at these common factors: Continue reading on Egosancares for more discussion about why people living with dementia may fight bathing (and some tips that may help): Minding Our Elders: Caregivers Share Their Personal Stories. “I hold onto your book as a life preserver and am reading it slowly on purpose...I don't want it to end.” ...Craig William Dayton, Film Composer Di...
Source: Minding Our Elders - Category: Geriatrics Authors: Source Type: blogs