Archive for March 22nd, 2012
Posted on March 22, 2012 - by Nurse Virginia
22 – BATHING CONSIDERATIONS FOR THE ELDER WITH ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE
- Depression could cause the elder to lose interest in personal hygiene.
- Physical illness could also cause the elder to lose interest in personal hygiene.
- If the Hypothalamus region of the brain (the body’s internal thermostat regulator) is damaged from Alzheimer’s disease, this could cause a changed sense of perception of hot and cold water temperature.
- Brain damage could also cause a different sensation of water.
- Older skin tends to be dry and sensitive, daily cleaning of private areas and under skin folds is recommended instead of frequent baths.
- Poor lighting and poor eyesight could play a role in not wanting to bathe.
- Lack of privacy. Be as nonchalant as possible. Take an almost businesslike tone, discussing bathing as if it is a necessary medical procedure rather than a personal experience.
- Room temperature too cold.
- Water to hot or cold.
- Fear of falling.
- Fear of water or of being hurt by it.
- A disruption in the daily routine of the elder.
- Unfamiliar caregivers.
- The reason for taking a bath is forgotten. Because the elder doesn’t remember what bathing is for they don’t have the patience to endure the lack of modesty or being cold.
- Humiliation of being reminded to take a bath.
- Agitated before starting the bath.
- Feeling of being rushed by the caregiver.
- Feeling embarrassed about being naked.
- Fatigue
- Fear of hair washing and water on face.
- Elder waiting too long while caregiver prepares bath.
- Fear of water/soap
Virginia Garberding, R.N.
Director of Education, The Wealshire, Lincolnshire, Illinois
Author: Please Get To Know Me – Aging with Dignity and Relevance
- Help your elder find comfort, relevance and respect no matter how frail he or she is.
Find out why the quality of life depends so much on the family no matter who the direct caregiver may be.
Find out how to have a meaningful visit with your parent when they have dementia.
Testimonial:
Katherine from Wisconsin said "I bought a book for each of my three children because this is what I want them to know if I ever need to be taken care of."
www.pleasegettoknowme.com
