Tips To Help You Get Your Elderly Loved One To Shower

There can be a number of reasons why an elderly loved one might be resistant to showering. Here are some tips that might help:

Address any underlying concerns:

• Physical Challenges: They may have physical challenges that make showering difficult or unsafe. Grab bars, a shower chair, and a handheld shower head can all make showering safer and easier.
• Fear of Falling: If they’re worried about falling, installing grab bars in the shower and bathtub, and using a bath mat with good traction can help ease their anxiety. A shower chair can also provide extra security.
• Pain or discomfort: If they’re in pain, showering might be uncomfortable. Talk to their doctor to see if there are ways to manage their pain during showering.

Make it a positive experience:

• Spa Treatment: Reframe shower time as a spa experience. Use nice smelling bath products, play soothing music, and offer them a washcloth or loofah to make showering more enjoyable.
• Warm the bathroom: Make sure the bathroom is warm before they get in the shower to prevent them from getting chilled.
• Offer assistance: If they need help washing themselves, offer to assist them or suggest hiring a home health aide.
• Maintain privacy: If they’re concerned about privacy, allow them to shut the bathroom door or offer a shower curtain liner.

Focus on the benefits:

• Help them understand the importance of showering for hygiene and health.
• Point out that showering can help them feel refreshed and energized.

Be patient and understanding:

• Avoid arguing or nagging.
• Try to be patient and understanding.
• Work with them to find a solution that works for everyone.

Here are some additional resources that you might find helpful:

• What to Do When a Senior Refuses to Bathe and Change Clothes: https://seniorsafetyadvice.com/why-do-elderly-not-want-to-shower/

I hope this helps!