Tips for bathing a person with Alzheimer’s

Planning ahead for bathing can make the experience easier for both the caregiver and the person with Alzheimer’s disease. Try to follow the person’s lifelong routine. For example, if they have always showered in the morning, try to stick with that habit. These are some tips to get started with a bath or shower: Get the soap, washcloth, towels, and shampoo ready. Make sure the bathroom is warm and well lighted. Play soft music if it helps to relax the person. Be matter-of-fact about bathing. Say, “It’s time for a bath now.” Don’t argue about the need for a bath or shower. Be gentle and respectful. Tell the person what you are going to do, step by step. Make sure the water temperature is comfortable. Don’t use bath oil. It can make the tub slippery and may cause urinary tract infections. Get more helpful hints for bathing, dressing, and grooming a person with Alzheimer’s on our website. Share this information on social media: Caregivers—plan ahead before helping a person with Alzheimer’s bathe or shower. Be gentle and respectful and tell the person what you are going to do, step by step. Get more tips on bathing, dressing, and grooming: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/bathing-dressing-and-grooming-alzheimers-caregiving-tips