Bathing is a very persona task that many people use as a means of relaxation and a daily form of taking care of themselves. For many elderly adults, however, mobility challenges and limitations can make it more difficult for them to be able to handle the tasks of bathing on their own safely. This is often one of the first ways that their independence is threatened, which can be emotionally challenging for your elderly parent.
As their family caregiver you can help to preserve their quality of life, support their mental and emotional health, and keep them more independent by helping them to stay safe while bathing.
Some tools and technology your parent can use to bathe or shower more safely include:
Handheld shower heads that allow your parent to rinse without bending, reaching, or twisting.
Shower mats that prevent slipping so that your parent is more secure and does not fall.
Product dispensers that adhere to the wall so that your parent can get the proper amount of body wash, shampoo, or conditioner. This lets them avoid bending over to get bottles and reduces the chances that product will get on the bottom of the tub, causing slippery conditions.
Thermometers that instantly read the temperature of the water to help prevent scalding. This can be particularly valuable to a senior who is dealing with nerve damage such as neuropathy related to diabetes that prevents them from being able to detect temperatures effectively.
Handles or grab bars that provide leverage so that your parent can get into and out of the tub or shower without slipping.
In the course of your caregiver journey with your aging parent you will make a wide variety of important decisions. One of the most important that you will make is how to ensure that your parent’s needs are met effectively and efficiently. Fortunately elder homecare can make this decision much simpler. An elderly homecare services provider can be with your parent on a customized schedule to ensure that their needs are met in the way that is right for them while also keeping you at the forefront of their care routine.
This care provider can fill care gaps, be with your parent when your schedule keeps you from being with them as often as you would like, handle tasks that you are not able to or are uncomfortable handling, and boost their social interaction and emotional health with companionship and support.