Yes it's a worry isn't it?
But choosing the right aids makes bathing easier, safer and more comfortable - and help stop you worrying so much.
Maintaining personal hygiene is essential for retaining dignity and in the early stages of dementia people may still be able to take a bath or shower by themselves. However, it's important to make sure the bathroom has appropriate safety measures in place to reduce the risk of a slip or fall.
For example, sitting or standing up too quickly can make an older person light headed, so a handrail and a non-slip mat are useful measures to help maintain balance when getting in or out of the bath. A bath seat or bath lift can also make it easier to get in and out, but if it's still too difficult, taking a shower may be a better option. A shower stool is helpful to remain steady and long handled sponges can be used to reach the back and feet.
Grab rails and towel rails should all be in bright colours so that the eye is drawn to them. Even the towels and soap should be a different colour from their background so that they're easy to spot.
Choosing the right aids can make bathing easier, increase confidence, reduce the opportunities for mishaps and prolong independence.
Waterless Washing if there is a fear of water
Water can be almost invisible to people with dementia or they dislike the feel on their skin, so they refuse to take a bath or shower. Now there’s a quick and easy, water-free alternative to traditional bathing or hair washing with the Nilaqua product range. CLICK HERE
Bath Boards help the less mobile
Bath boards rest securely on both sides of the bath and provide a seating platform to sit on to wash or shower. They offer an ideal solution if a person cannot get in and out of the bath easily or is reluctant to sit and bathe in the water. The use of a grab rail at the side can be an additional help. CLICK HERE
Grab Rails give extra security
Grab rails can provide added stability where needed in the bathroom or toilet. Available in bright contrasting colours to help with recognition, these can either be permanently fixed to a solid wall or suction grab bars which can be easily removed when not in use. CLICK HERE
Bath Steps help with climbing in out of the bath
Placed at the side, bath steps reduce the height which a person has to step to get in or out of the bath. They are ideal for people who find it difficult to raise their legs over the bath rim.
Bath Seats - comfortable and safe
Bath seats provide comfort and support while bathing. A swivel seat allows the user to get into the bath easily and wash without sitting right at the bottom. CLICK HERE
Shower Stools to help those who cant stand
For anyone who has difficulty standing in the shower for long periods or just wants to enjoy a longer shower, a shower stool is ideal. CLICK HERE
Bath Lifts make the whole process safe and easy
Powered bath lifts fit inside the bath and allow the user to remain seated while bathing. Operated by a handset, bath lifts lower and raise a person in the bath at the touch of a button so they can bathe independently. A bath lift also allows a carer to bathe someone with a reduced risk of back discomfort. CLICK HERE
Toilet & Bathroom Signage so there is no mistaking where to go
It’s important for people with dementia to maintain hygiene standards and retain their dignity, so being able to find the toilet or bathroom easily will help to reduce anxiety and prolong independence. CLICK HERE
