Bathtubs and Showers

Bathing

Bathing is crucial for cleanliness, hygiene, health, relaxation, and self-perception. Inadequate bathing can lead to skin or urinary track infections, itchiness, and body odor.

Daily Bathing Not Required

While most people shower or take a bath daily, it is not required for good health. Bathing at least once or twice weekly can help most seniors avoid skin breakdown and infections. To minimize body odor between full baths or showers, use a washcloth to wipe feet, armpits, groin, genitals, and any skin folds.

Some dementia caregivers advocate daily bathing, as it becomes part of the affected senior’s regular daily routine, making it less likely that they will resist.

In any case, it is essential to take specific health conditions into consideration when choosing a bathing schedule. Some people may need to bathe more frequently than others for medical reasons.

The easiest and most thorough means of cleaning the body is a shower or bath in a tub. But if you have limited mobility, or cannot or simply do not want to frequently take a shower or bath, a sponge bath can be an effective alternative.

Safety and Comfort are Key Bathing Concerns

Moving to and from the bathroom, and entering and exiting the bathtub or shower  can be a challenge for many seniors. Weakness, injury, poor balance, impaired mental faculties or vision, and other factors can limit the senior’s ability to bathe, and enthusiasm for making the effort.

Mobility aids such as rolling shower/commode chairs, grab bars, and non-slip floors help with movement to and within the bathroom. Transfer benches, walk-in bathtubs, and roll-in barrier-free showers help make entry and exit from the tub or shower easier. Shower benches and chairs allow for  sitting while bathing. A hand-held showerhead makes it easier to shower while sitting and spraying under parts.

Make sure bathroom lighting is good, including having a light in the shower.

Below is a sampling of products and equipment that are designed to help you with bathing.  Click on the links to find out more information, see other products selections, and if you like, to make a purchase from one of our providers.