Elderly mother refuses to take a bath

by Debbie
(San Antonio, TX)

My elderly mother has dementia and refuses to take a bath.

My elderly father tells her to take a bath but refuses also with him.

I am one of their daughters who lives here with them. I help as much as I can but its so sad to see my mother like that.

She had a heart attack and since then she has gotten dementia.

She was so active before in wanting to keep up with her hair and nails. I just wish she would be the same as she use to be.

I know that having dementia has caused her to not be herself.

We all love her dearly and will continue to support her as much as we can.

I know we have to be strong for her.

Comments for Elderly mother refuses to take a bath

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Please take care of her hygiene NEW
by: Jeremy Jardinel

One thing that sometimes helps is not calling it a bath at all because that word alone can trigger fear or resistance in someone with dementia. Try approaching it more casually like "let’s freshen up" or "let me help you get comfortable." A lot of people with dementia become scared of water, feel embarrassed, feel cold easily, or simply get confused about the whole process. You may also have better luck trying at a different time of day when she’s calmer and less tired. Even small things like warming the bathroom, using soft towels, playing calming music, or doing sponge baths instead of full baths can make a big difference.

I got all my references here:
https://hopebridge.care/navigating-hygiene-concerns-with-elderly-parents/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Old_age
https://www.seniorlifestyle.com/resources/blog/guide-to-hygiene-for-seniors/

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