Personal care, including washing and bathing, can be difficult for carers and is a common source of anxiety for people with dementia.
It is not hard to understand why – most of us have been carrying out these activities on our own since we were children. Other reasons for anxiety around washing and bathing include:
• Deep bath water – deep water can make some people feel worried.
• Overhead showers – some people find the rush of water from an
overhead shower frightening or disorienting.
• Isolation – some people may become anxious if they are left on their
own and may want you to stay with them while they are washing
• Incontinence – this may be a sensitive issue for both of you