7 Tips to Help a Loved One Bathe

If our loved ones need assistance with bathing, it can be an uncomfortable experience for them to involve us, but it may be necessary for their health and well-being. We should be open with our loved ones about their bathing needs, and, if necessary, enlist the assistance of a doctor in stressing the importance of receiving help in this area. We can ask our loved ones their preferences regarding who they would like to have help them with this task. If the task falls to us, we can follow these tips to help make the experience go smoothly. If we develop and stick to a routine, it should become less uncomfortable over time.

1.    A full daily bath may not be in a loved one's best interest. Skin tends to become more dry and sensitive as we age, so a head-to-toe scrubbing everyday could do more harm than good. Instead, private areas and skin folds should be gently cleaned on a daily basis with a warm washcloth. We should save the full baths for two or three times a week, or more if recommended by a physician.

2.    We should make sure the bathtub or shower is properly equipped to accommodate a loved one's level of balance and agility. Any items from the bathroom floor that could be a tripping hazard (including area rugs) should be removed. We can install grab bars in the tub or shower, and get a shower seat if needed to help our loved ones avoid falls. An inexpensive hose for the tub can make rinsing easier. If a loved one is unable to step into a bathtub, installing a transfer bench or considering sponge baths may be helpful options for us. We should also make sure the room is warm and to test the temperature of the water before a loved one enters the bath.

3.    Regardless of the method of bathing, we should prepare in advance any items that will be needed, such as washcloths, towels, soap and shampoo. If a loved one has favorite products that they've always used, we can keep using those unless they become too harsh for sensitive skin. If we switch to a baby shampoo or sensitive skin formula soap, we should explain to our loved ones the reason why.

4.    We can provide our loved ones some level of privacy when cleaning private areas. They can keep a towel on their lap throughout the bath, which is only lifted as needed. 

5.    If our loved ones are able to handle a washcloth, we should let them clean themselves as much as possible, even if it's just to wipe down their arms. That simple action can help them retain a sense of independence and can help keep their mind off the more thorough washing we're giving them. Other distractions that may help include light conversation or playing their favorite music while they bathe.

6.    If we are giving our loved ones sponge baths in their bed, there are no-rinse soaps and shampoos available that make this task a little easier. However, we should be aware that they will still need to rinse off occasionally to remove residue.

7.    Home care agencies can provide assistance with bathing. We may find the best option is to handle the day-to-day washing ourselves and have a home care aide come in a couple times a week to take care of the more thorough bathing.

A version of this article appeared in the Private Health News.