Bathing Your Loved One

By Jessica Ott | June 9, 2023 |

When your parents need a bath, it can seem intimidating for both of you. As an adult child, you will always want to care for your parents, and that is reasonable, especially if your mom or dad wants to age in place. However, bathing can be a vulnerable position for your parents, and they may not want your help no matter how much you’re willing to do for them. If your parents do not want their adult child’s help, it’s not the right time to pressure them into allowing you to bathe them. Instead, you should find the right personal care at home provider to help your senior age in place but also remain as independent as possible. Personal care at home can be the best solution to make your seniors feel more comfortable and keep up with their hygiene.

Here are some tips to help your loved one bathe, but these tips can also be useful for anyone who is helping.

Start The Water

Personal Care at Home Gettysburg PA – Bathing Your Loved One

Sometimes your seniors may not want to bathe because they can’t turn the water on anymore. Maybe the handle is too hard to twist, or they forget which way is hot or cold. Stick to a routine with personal care at home and shower a few times a week. When your seniors stick to a routine, they will know when it’s time to wash, and you can prepare the bath or shower beforehand.

Wear Shower Clothes

If your senior relies on someone else to help them wash certain areas, they may feel more comfortable in a bathing suit or even a long shirt covering most of their bodies. This is not something that should be shamed. If your loved one wants to do this, encourage it until they feel more comfortable. Being covered up may help them feel less vulnerable and help them feel more confident when bathing, even if it’s with help.

Use a Washcloth

Many seniors don’t want you touching them, and that is okay. However, you should be wearing gloves or have a layer between you and the senior. You may be wondering why and the truth is this is more sanitary, and it may feel more professional for a senior, which can make them feel more comfortable during bath time. Wearing gloves or a washcloth will help prevent the spread of bacteria and keep both of you safe during bath time.

Do Hair Separate

If your senior does not like being in the bath for a long time, you can usually do the hair separately. Focusing on the body first and the hair later may be easier. If your senior needs a hair wash, this can be done in the sink, and you can help them without making them feel vulnerable. It will take only a few minutes to do hair; sometimes, a senior may not want to wash their hair while washing their body because it will help them dry faster.

Moisturize After

Always ensure your senior to moisturize after a shower to avoid irritation and dryness. This can sometimes be a huge reason that a senior does not like showering. Also, ensure their skin is well cared for after it dries.

If you or an aging loved one are considering Personal Care at Home Services in Gettysburg PA, please talk to us. Our friendly staff can answer all of your questions. In-home Senior Care in Adams and York Counties, PA. Call Today: (717) 698-8258.

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Jessica Ott

Owner at A Helping Hand Home Care Services, LLC

Jessica Ott is the Owner at A Helping Hand Home Care Services, LLC.

A Helping Hand Home Care Services, LLC is dedicated to providing our clients with a better quality of life through our support services while maintaining their independence in the comfort of their own home.

As a Home Care Agency licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Health, we can provide families with peace of mind, knowing their loved one is in good hands.

We will work with you to prepare a care plan that incorporates your needs, your wishes, and your preferred schedule. Each client is matched with a caregiver who can best meet their individual needs, whether they reside in a house, apartment, condominium, assisted living, or nursing community.