Washing and bathing someone with dementia

As much pride as our home carers Gloucestershire here at Bramble Home Care (http://www.bramblehomecare.co.uk) take in helping people with dementia to maintain their independence, we do realise that there are certain elements of everyday care that can pose a challenge - with one of these being washing and bathing. So used are most adults to cleaning being a highly private and personal activity, that adjusting to having someone wash and bathe them can be difficult. Tactfulness, sensitivity and respect for that person's dignity are therefore vital.

With washing and bathing being activities that many of us have been used to doing on our own since we were children, it's understandable that many of those receiving home help Gloucester would be anxious about it. The person with dementia may be worried by the thought of deep bath water, which may lead you to keep the water shallow or set up a bath seat for them. Or they might be self-conscious about being undressed in front of you, which is why many carers will only uncover the part of the person's body that they are currently washing.

Other sensitive issues for the person with dementia who is being washed can include overhead showers, isolation and incontinence, so you may need to carefully consider your washing and bathing strategy and speak to them positively and sensitively about the process, acknowledging the very personal nature of the activity, but also expressing your happiness to help. Ask them about their feelings and what ways of cleaning and bathing they may prefer from you, while also trying to avoid becoming overly obtrusive. There are many ways in which you can help the person with dementia to preserve their independence while washing, much as our own dementia care Gloucestershire aims to accomplish.

Some good general washing and bathing tips that we can give you as a home care agency Gloucestershire include trying to ensure the most pleasurable and relaxed experience possible, perhaps with some relaxing music and a nice bubble bath. You shouldn't be afraid to chat and explain what you are doing. Emphasise with them as best as you can, imagining how you would feel in their situation. Be organised and flexible so that you can get the job done while minimising your loved one's stress. Use appropriate toiletries that the person is familiar with, and ensure that at the end of the process, they are thoroughly dried to avoid the chafing of the skin.

Washing and bathing is on the long list of everyday tasks that you may find physically and emotionally difficult when caring for someone with dementia. To avoid feeling too overwhelmed, you are welcome to enquire about how a home care worker Gloucester from Bramble Home Care (http://www.bramblehomecare.co.uk) could help you with the bathing process, in addition to a wide range of other care duties, from helping your loved one to get up on the morning, to preparing them for bed at night.

Editor’s Note: Bramble Home Care (http://www.bramblehomecare.co.uk) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.