Showering and changing clothes are a?common struggle?for caregivers.

Showering and changing clothes are a common struggle for caregivers. After a few visits, when Mom wore the same sweater (in the heat), I asked if she was giving them trouble changing clothes.

The answer was yes, and she was starting to refuse to shower. Thankfully, at the time, the solution was to move her shower time back to the morning. However, as her memory and ability to care for herself diminished, she accepted less help.

Individuals with dementia may resist showering for various reasons, and it's essential to approach the issue with empathy and understanding. Over the years, talking to caregivers, people living with dementia, and my own experiences, I've learned a few reasons and solutions to the showering struggle.

Loss of Independence and Control:

• Reason:?People with dementia may lose control and independence regarding personal care activities like showering.

Sensory Issues:

• Reason:?Sensory changes associated with dementia may make the shower experience uncomfortable due to changes in water temperature perception or sensitivity to touch.

Memory Loss and Confusion:

• Reason:?Individuals with dementia may struggle with memory loss and become confused about the purpose of showering or forget when they last bathed.

Fear and Anxiety:

• Reason:?Dementia can cause fear and anxiety, and the shower environment may feel unfamiliar or intimidating.

Physical Discomfort or Pain:

• Reason:?Individuals with dementia may have undiagnosed physical discomfort, pain, oconditions such as arthritis that make bathing painful.

One last thought. We're accustomed to daily showers, but that's optional for many of us. Two showers a week is acceptable if your loved one is not soiled, dirty, or overly sweaty. In fact, daily showers may cause skin issues. If your loved one won't shower today, don't engage in a battle. Try again tomorrow.

How Baby Doll Therapy Helps Dementia

Baby doll therapy,?often associated with women and motherhood,?offers unexpected benefits for individuals with dementia.?This innovative approach has proven effective in engaging patients,?improving their verbal communication,?and providing comfort during challenging times.

Contrary to popular belief,?baby doll therapy is not exclusive to women or those who have had children.?Men,?too,?can find solace and connection through this unique form of therapy.?By fostering a sense of nurturing and responsibility,?baby dolls can help individuals with dementia feel more grounded and engaged.

If you're considering incorporating baby doll therapy into your care routine,?it's essential to approach it with sensitivity and understanding.?Observe your loved one's reactions and adjust the therapy as needed.?Remember,?the goal is to create a positive and meaningful experience that promotes well-being.

PodLink: https://pod.link/1372194620

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Catch-up episode:

Montessori Style Dementia Engagement

Regular listeners will remember that this podcast started because I sought better engagement methods with my Mom. Thankfully, we know better ways to help keep our loved ones active, engaged, and happy. Montessori engagement creates an environment filled with cues and memory support that is explicitly designed to enable individuals to care for themselves.

For more information regarding working with us, email us at [email protected]