Personal Care
Providing personal care, particularly bathing persons with dementia, can be a challenge for both family and professional caregivers. With proper education and a focus on comfort care, we determine how and when the person with dementia prefers to receive his or her care.
Bathing
The simplest way to view this necessity is from the patient's point of view. Take into account the abilities of a person with dementia and customize care accordingly. For instance, knowing a person's bathing preferences (bath or shower) is very important. Creating a spa-like experience using a towel bath instead of a shower or tub bath may lead to greater success. Pay careful attention to room temperature, appropriate padding on shower chairs, and not baring the body all at once to keep the person comfortable and secure. Distractions such as singing, background music, tastes of chocolate, or talking about a favorite subject can also be very helpful. For more information on bathing, please refer to the Dementia Digest, Bathing Issue.
Eating
Eating also should be customized to the individual's preferences. Providing meals and snacks on a flexible, round-the-clock schedule is very important. Offering favorite foods, with a focus on soft and sweet comfort foods, will encourage eating and help minimize weight loss. A pleasant environment free from noise and distractions creates an enjoyable dining experience.