Refusing to shower(1)

Jayleen1234

How can you help someone with AD who refuse to shower?

harshedbuzz

Hi and welcome.

I am sorry for your need to be here but glad you found this site.

Alas, the showering thing is very common. What solution will work for you will depend, in part, on what is driving the refusal by your LO. This reason why may be difficult to suss out and there could be multiple factors in play.

If it's a sensory thing, perhaps warming the room and offering a bubble bath might work. If the refusal is related to believing your LO has already showered, offering the shower first thing sometimes works. Some PWD are with it enough to agree to clean up ahead of company or a medical appointment. Some don't know the steps and need hands on help; sometimes that help is more accepted from a professional caregiver. Sometimes a person can't be convinced, and sponge baths are as good as it gets.

There's also this:

Bathing | Alzheimer's Association

Teresa39

I have issues with showering also. I gave up and go with the sponge bath. From the water being cold to the fear of falling I found it not worth the battle. Last week I was able to get my LO to shower but it took a huge effort. She even said it felt good afterwards.