We have tried many things to make bathing easier for my parents. We now have a good process in place but struggle to get daddy’s cooperation. Although he has not articulated why he’s reluctant to bathe sometimes, I suspect it’s because he prefers to move as little as possible to reduce back and leg pain, doesn’t want to be cold after removing his clothes and is just plain ornery. This reluctance probably is more common in the elderly than we realize.
I have learned firsthand that hearing and eyesight decline as we age. Our ability to smell and taste also may decline or change.
Additionally, I’ve read that there is a connection between loss of smell and dementia. This complicates things further for caregivers trying to get their loved ones to maintain good hygiene. Those with memory deficits with a deteriorating sense of smell often can’t remember when or if they took a bath or brushed their teeth and can’t easily tell when their hygiene is declining if they’ve depended on their sense of smell.
This is the case with my father. Daddy often argues with me about the last time he bathed. When we are at an impasse, I have found it helpful pull up the camera footage that shows him wearing the same pajamas or loungewear.
Besides the obvious, lack of hygiene can cause medical issues like infections, skin ailments, nail fungus, oral issues etc. Even if someone bathes and brushes regularly, he or she may have difficulty doing so properly due to mobility limitations, which also can lead to poor hygiene.
If this sounds familiar, these tips may help.
HYGIENE SUGGESTIONS FOR CAREGIVERS
- Determine how best to help your loved one with bathing and toileting while maintaining his or her dignity, respect and privacy. Start small or take baby steps — and consider this person’s likes and dislikes so you establish trust.
- Consider buying a bidet or a device that can help extend reach during toileting and bathing.
- Keep wet wipes handy, but be careful about flushing them.
- Develop a daily hygiene routine that includes at least washing the face, neck, hands and private areas, changing undergarments and brushing teeth.
- Clean and check feet during bath time, observing the bottoms and areas between the toes.
- Select a day of the week for laundering clothes. Some items may need to be washed or pre-treated to prevent staining or smelling.
- Schedule a day or days during the week for shampooing. Arrange regular hair appointments or hire a professional to come to your loved one’s home to help with shampooing, trimming and styling as needed.
- Encourage your loved one to clean his or her nails often. If needed, schedule a professional to do it; insurance may cover the cost.
- Insist that your loved one uses deodorant daily after bathing or freshening up.
- Aging skin becomes thinner and more sensitive, which may require using different products. Consider switching to a milder soap, teen deodorant or products for sensitive skin.
- Clean bed linens at least weekly, although it may be needed daily. The refresh should at least include sheets, blankets, spreads, duvets, comforters, bed pads and mattress covers.
- Observe shoes to determine when they need wiped, dusted or washed.
- Routinely clean commonly used areas in the home.
- Periodically clean caps, hats, wigs, coats, sweaters and jackets.
- If your loved one uses a transport chair, wheelchair, cane or other assistive device, clean those often.
- Replace toothbrushes monthly.
- Schedule regular dentist appointments to have teeth or dentures checked.
