Follow
Share

My mom is reluctant to bath regularly.

This question has been closed for answers. Ask a New Question.
Your bio states your mom has mobility problems. So, does she get sponge baths? Reluctant how? Flat out refusing to bathe? Could be a lot of factors. Like the room might feel too cold, or the water too hot, or doesn't like the towel or soap. I had to fine tune those factors when caring for my Mom. Steamed up the bathroom so it was almost like a sauna, then kept the shower water warm but not too warm, a special towel she really liked (colorful, striped, over sized beach towel), lavender soap, unscented shampoo. Worked out well. It took a bit of coaxing, but after awhile she was actually looking forward to showering. My husband's dementia is starting to go down the same road, and I'm now working on favorite towels, scents and already know he likes a cooler bathroom-thank goodness, this is an old, drafty house!
Helpful Answer (1)
Report

In addition to Ariadnee's comments - at some point getting into and out of a typical tub/shower arrangement becomes almost impossible, is the bathroom equipped with an easily accessible shower with grab bars, a sturdy shower chair and a hand held and/or adjustable height shower? Have you taken steps to make it slip free?
When the problem isn't with the bathroom itself some people have had success hiring an aide to come in a couple of times a week - turning bathing time over to an outside professional means there is a set day that can't be put off wheedled out of.
Beyond that sponge baths or bed baths are still an option, there are many products designed to keep someone clean without having a full bath.
Helpful Answer (1)
Report

Please keep in mind that the elderly just don't need to shower/bath as much anymore. After her bathing, a cream should be applied to her skin.

If you are concerned that she has an odor, here is an interesting article from this forum about 2-nonenal, the naturally occurring chemical compound that our bodies make after the age of 40 that creates the "old people smell":

https://www.agingcare.com/articles/old-person-smell-174839.htm
Helpful Answer (0)
Report

This question has been closed for answers. Ask a New Question.
Ask a Question
Subscribe to
Our Newsletter