My mother lives in a wonderful assisted living memory care unit with some ability to still care for herself and is normally a very pleasant person. At the end of each day she lays the clothes she’s already worn over the arm of her sofa and usually tucks her socks into her shoes. She forgets how many times she has worn them and her clothes hamper is always empty when I visit. I don’t have a problem with her wearing the same clothes a couple days but more than that and she’s starting to smell a little ripe! These actions are starting to become a little more un-hygienic now because she is also starting to lose control of her bowels. I’ve already mentioned my dilemma to the caregivers and they are willing to help but my mother tends to become aggressive when they try to help her shower or clean up. Looking for tips and advice from anyone who has experienced the same.
When mom gets to the point where she can no longer dress herself they can just get her dressed in clean clothes but as long as she is dressing herself they should just replace the soiled with clean. Let her have the "independence" that she has for as long as she can
I do think it was comfort and sensitive skin. Any new outfit was quickly discarded. She was perhaps grasping for the familiar.
Buying multiples helped tremendously.
There are various reasons why older people dislike showering on a regular basis.
There wasn’t a hygiene issue with my mom. She loved feeling fresh and she loved her stylish wardrobe. She was part of the Hollywood glamour era and was a bit vain!
My mom was hesitant or uncomfortable about getting into the shower because she was afraid of falling. She had balance issues due to her Parkinson’s disease. I placed a shower chair in her bathroom for her. Even with the chair, safety bars and non slip mat, she was never truly comfortable.
My mom didn’t fight being showered but many people have these issues.
Stick around for answers. Others who have had your experience will offer suggestions.
Best wishes to you and your mom.
It's gotten tough getting her into the shower. I've taken to a "practice run" with clothes on the day before her shower. Other times she gives herself "a whore's bath" everyday in the sink. That's fine with me. She never smells.
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