Keeping Cool and Clean This Summer: Gentle Care Tips for People Living with Dementia

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As temperatures rise, staying fresh and comfortable becomes even more important, especially for older adults and those living with dementia. But showering and personal hygiene can often cause distress or confusion. At Home Instead Wembley, we know just how common this is and how a few simple changes can make all the difference.

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Here are our top tips to help your loved one feel calm, clean, and comfortable this summer:

Understand Why They May Refuse a Shower

Refusal isn’t about being ‘difficult’ – there’s usually a reason behind it. Common causes include:

– Fear or confusion: They may not recognise the bathroom or feel alarmed by water.

 

– Privacy and dignity: Being undressed may feel embarrassing or uncomfortable.

 

– Sensitivity: Water might feel too cold, too hot, or painful on the skin.

 

– Perception: They might believe they’ve already bathed or don’t see the need.

Use Calm, Person-Centred Communication

How you speak makes a huge difference. Try to:

  • Avoid the word “shower” if it causes distress. Use phrases like: 
    • “Let’s freshen up.” 
    • “How about a relaxing wash?” 
  • Validate their feelings – “I know this doesn’t feel nice, but we’ll go slowly.” 
  • Reassure them constantly – Let them know they’re safe and in control. 
  • Keep your tone gentle and positive.
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Create a Comfortable, Reassuring Environment

Make the bathroom feel safe and familiar:

– Ensure it’s warm, well-lit, and clutter-free.

 

– Use a non-slip mat and a shower chair for stability.

 

– Offer a hand-held shower head so they feel more in control.

 

– Play soothing music or bring in familiar objects, like a favourite towel or scent.

Offer Choice and Control

Giving your loved one some say in the process builds trust and reduces anxiety. Try:

– “Would you like a strip wash or a shower today?”

 

– “Shall we do it now or after breakfast?”

 

– “Which towel do you prefer – the blue or the green one?”

 

– Let them wash their hands, face, or feet themselves if they can.

 

Find the Right Time and Stick to a Routine

Timing can be everything:

  • Choose a time when they’re calm and relaxed – often mid-morning works well. 
  • Avoid washing when they’re tired, hungry, or upset. 
  • Stick to a consistent routine, so they feel more prepared and less anxious.
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Use a Gentle, Respectful Approach

It’s not just what you do, but how you do it:

  • Move slowly and confidently – don’t rush. 
  • Use a towel or robe to preserve modesty throughout. 
  • Talk through each step, e.g., “Now we’ll just wash your arms.” 

Keep reassuring them gently as you go.

An olde rmale adult with grey hair washing his face with his younger female carer with blonde hair inside the bathroom

Try Alternatives When a Shower Isn’t an Option

Sometimes, full showers aren’t possible, and that’s okay. Focus on comfort and hygiene in other ways:

– Offer a strip wash or top-and-tail clean.

 

– Use no-rinse body wash or gentle wipes.

 

– Focus on key areas and offer clean clothes and freshening up as a short-term alternative.

At Home Instead Wembley, we understand the emotional and practical challenges that come with personal care. Our Care Professionals use empathy, patience, and gentle routines to help older adults feel confident, dignified, and cared for all year round.

Need support for your loved one this summer? Get in touch with our friendly team today on 0208 022 4590 to find out more about personal care and dementia care.

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