Due to cognitive decline, pain, mobility, or endurance challenges, seniors might struggle to care for themselves independently and perform activities of daily living. These personal care tasks like showering or bathing, for example, can be challenging to complete alone or even dangerous, leading to falls. Fortunately, there are devices and home adjustments that can support an aging adult who lives at home. The right fixes can meet challenges head-on and give seniors more confidence and independence while keeping them safe. Here are a few shower aids for elderly people that meet common bathing and showering challenges.
Shower chairs
Standing in the shower can sometimes be unsafe due to slick surfaces, and balance and endurance challenges can make it much more dangerous. A shower chair offers safety and peace of mind at a reasonable cost for a quick and effective fix.
Shower chairs allow seniors to safely sit down to complete their hygiene routine, eliminating the need to worry about balance or endurance. They offer not only a physical break but also a mental one, reducing both anxiety about a fall and the need to concentrate on staying safe.
You can find a variety of shower chair styles, including ones that mount to the wall and fold down when needed and others that are temporary or portable.
Handheld showerheads
A handheld showerhead is the perfect accompanying shower aid for seniors who use a shower chair. These removable showerheads allow seniors to remain seated while washing their hair and body. You can find removable showerheads in a variety of finishes and styles to match your loved one’s bathroom.
Be sure to choose an option that makes it easier for your loved one to shower, not more difficult. Look for a showerhead with a long enough hose that can easily reach your loved one’s shower chair and doesn’t get tangled up when returning the showerhead to its base.
Grab bars
Grab bars are a good solution for seniors who need extra support with balance but don’t need to sit down while showering. These shower aids provide extra support when walking into the shower and while bathing.
Grab bars should always be installed correctly to be durable and sturdy. Many grab bars use suction to adhere to the shower wall, making it a solution that you can remove easily. Some suction grab bars even have indicators that show when you’ve installed the bar properly. Others mount to studs in the wall for a permanent solution. Grab bars come in various finishes, so you can choose one that matches your bathroom and preferences.
Medical alert system
The bathroom can be a dangerous place for falls and other accidents. All the wet surfaces make maintaining balance more difficult, even for active seniors. You can give your loved one (and yourself) peace of mind by considering a medical alert system. These devices, usually emergency buttons worn around the neck or wrist, are typically monitored by trained professionals who can provide immediate assistance when the button is pushed or when the device detects a fall. Other devices simply page a family caregiver who is in the home with the senior. Medical alert systems come with different features and functions, so be sure to research which system is best for your loved one and their unique needs.
Waterless shampoo and soap
It can be common for adults living with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia to refuse showers or baths. This can be attributed to their not understanding what is happening, embarrassment, or agitation. Waterless shampoos and soaps can come in handy by helping to maintain skin cleanliness and integrity without adding to the stress of a shower. While dry shampoo can work in a pinch, there are also other types of rinse-free shampoos designed especially for older adults living with dementia. Waterless soap is another excellent solution, as are waterless soap wipes. Experiment with a few products to find one that works best for your loved one.
Modesty covers
For some seniors, embarrassment is the barrier to showering or bathing with assistance. If this is the case with your loved one, consider purchasing a modesty cover. These garments keep the body covered when it is not being cleaned. The cover preserves dignity and can also keep the person from becoming chilled from the air after getting out of the shower or bath.
Walk-in tub or shower
To get into a traditional bathtub, a person has to step over the bathtub wall. Climbing over this large step requires hip mobility, balance, and strength. One way to meet this safety challenge is to install a walk-in tub or shower. There are many kinds of walk-in tubs to suit different needs and budgets.
While this home modification could require financial investment, it can improve safety and independence in the short term and increase property value in the long term. Whether you have a small space, are looking for a range of luxurious features, or need to work within a budget, it’s likely that you can find a walk-in tub that makes bathing easier.
Final thoughts on shower aids for elderly people
Bathing and showering are imperative for your loved one’s health and wellness. Although some older adults struggle with bathing due to common issues associated with aging, the right devices and adaptations can make the process safer and less stressful. Be sure to explore shower aids for seniors that can give you peace of mind while keeping your older adult loved one safe and healthy.
