Bathing Someone With Alzheimer's Disease

To make bathing easier:

• Let the person feel in control. Does the person prefer showers, a tub bath, and at what time of day?
• Create a safe atmosphere. Put non-slip adhesives on the floor and bottom of tub, install grab bars to prevent falls, test the water temperature in advance.
• Use a bath bench.
• Respect the person's dignity. Allow the person to keep a towel around him or her both ina dn out of the shower if necessary.
• Don't worry about bathing. It doesn't have to be done every day. Sponge baths can be used in between showers and baths.
• Be gentle. The person's skin may be sensitive. Avoid scrubbing. Pat dry. Use lotion.
• Be flexible. If the person does not want a shampoo use a wash cloth to soap and rinse the hair or a no rinse shampoo can be a substitute for regular shampoo.