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Real members of myALZteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Has Anyone Had Any More Success With Giving/ Or Getting A Loved One To Take Baths Instead Of Showers, If They Don't Like Water ?

A myALZteam Member asked a question 💭
Melbourne, AU

SHOWERS versus BATHS?

Regarding how people with advanced Alz "cannot see water" and so often do not like having a shower .: Has anyone had any more success with giving/ or getting a loved one to take baths instead?
Or even .. giving bed baths ( like nurses in hospitals give to bedridden patients) work any better when people don't like water on their face or coming at them?

August 29, 2017
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Answer Summary

Members shared creative bathing solutions for loved ones with advanced Alzheimer's who struggle with water, with many finding that jetted... Read more

Members shared creative bathing solutions for loved ones with advanced Alzheimer's who struggle with water, with many finding that jetted tubs, walk-in tubs with spa jets, and bubble baths create a much calmer, more enjoyable experience than traditional showers. Several members described practical adaptations including using handheld shower wands to give control over what gets wet, shower chairs for safety, bed baths with body shampoo that doesn't require rinsing, washing hair in the kitchen sink, and talking or singing throughout the process to provide reassurance and distraction. A recurring theme was the importance of understanding why water can be frightening for someone with dementia, breaking the bathing process into smaller steps, and finding whatever method brings dignity and comfort rather than distress.

A myALZteam Member

Hi! Charlie uses a hand held shower wand and sits safely in a shower chair! Hand held gives them control of what gets wet...the process does exhaust him lately! He needs a nap after the shower!

August 31, 2017
A myALZteam Member

Beverly has the right idea. Dan now sits on a shower chair in the tub and I use a hand held shower with him. I talk to him about what I am doing, ie. I tell him that I am going to wash his back, now I am going to do your hair etc. I also sing and joke during the whole process. Seems to make him enjoy it, once I can get him in there. I hope this helps.

September 22, 2017
A myALZteam Member

I give bed baths basin warm water two seperate cloths one for top one for bottom always do top half first wash an dress then bottom half the same

August 30, 2017
A myALZteam Member

My husband would get so angry at me when taking his shower. I decided to try the jetted tub. He is much more relaxed. I shampoo his hair first then do his back, chest and arms. I let him do his legs and feet then end with his private areas. He really likes the jets massaging his feet and back. It doesn't take much longer than the shower. And his temper doesn't flare up at all.

July 24, 2019
A myALZteam Member

I put a walk in tub in one bathroom and my wife loved it. Took a bath every day

January 19, 2019

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