Care Skills for Bathing and Dressing Dementia Patients

1. Approaches to Reduce Resistance During Bathing

• Explain supplies: Show water temperature, towels, shampoo, and body wash in a friendly way.

• Offer choices:

  • “Which shampoo would you like today?”

  • “Do you want to sit or stand while washing?”

• Break tasks into small steps: Wash in order: face → arms → legs → body.

• Provide reassurance and praise: “You’re doing well,” “Doesn’t this feel nice?”

2. Maintaining Privacy While Assisting

• Use covers: Bathrobe, large towels, portable screens.

• Minimize exposure: Only uncover the area being washed.

• Verbal respect: Explain before each step, e.g., “Let’s wash just your arm for now.”

• Encourage independence: Let the patient wash hands, feet, or face on their own if possible.

3. Creating a Safe Bathroom Environment

• Prevent slips: Non-slip mats on floor and inside the tub.

• Install grab bars: Near tub, toilet, and shower entrance.

• Check water temperature: 37–38℃ (98–100℉), avoid hot water.

• Minimize clutter: Keep bottles within reach and remove floor obstacles.

• Emergency preparedness: Keep a call bell or phone nearby, never leave alone for too long.

💡 Additional Tips

• Check mood before bathing: “How are you feeling today?”

• Keep sessions short: Avoid fatigue and anxiety from long baths.

• Follow a consistent routine: Same time and steps daily reduce resistance.

• Use calming music: Gentle music helps relax the patient.

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