How do I get my loved one to take a shower? The issue of seniors, who used to take regular showers and always wore fresh clothes, refusing to take showers and wear fresh clothes is far more common than most people realize. To solve this dementia challenge you must first understand why a loved one is not bathing or changing clothes regularly. The most common culprits for bathing refusal are depression, lack on control, dulling senses, discomfort, modesty and privacy and our approach. How many of us would like a stranger or our own family member to bathe us? Not many. So the approach must be gentle and patient, getting connected first, not putting task before relationship. Having the right bath aides and providing warmth and comfort can also help.
Think about resetting your expectations. The goal is getting clean, not getting a shower.