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somewhere Asked April 2020

My 90 year old mother in law has refused to bath or shave in many days. What can be done?

againx100 Apr 2020
Shaving? I'd give that up for sure!

Showering is a bit tough for some elders. Have you been able to talk to her about it? Will she tolerate a sponge bath?

freqflyer Apr 2020
I have noticed for myself that taking a shower is like going to the gym for a work out. It can be very exhausting for many seniors. Especially if one has memory issues, or mobility problems, etc.

Another thing, some seniors become claustrophobic when in a shower. Especially if there are glass doors. I know for myself, I need to keep the far door open a couple of feet. Sitting in a bath tub can be difficult getting in the tub, more so trying to get out of the tub. Is there a sturdy bath chair for Mom-in-law to use?

Then there is the fear of falling. If your love one is using a moisturizing liquid soap and/or hair conditioners, it will make the floor of the tub/shower feel like an ice rink, even with a tub mat inside. I almost slipped the other day.

Towel drying isn't easy. I find myself hopping around trying to get one foot and leg dry, can be a challenge. So easy to get one's feet tangled up in the towel.

Then if the parent needs to blow dry their hair, that can be tiring on their arms.

Phew !!

A parent doesn't need to shower daily, twice a week or once a week is good enough, unless they are doing hard labor. If a parent is a Depends wearer, baby wipes work quite well between showers. Recently I found a product called “Water Wipes” in the baby section, quite pleased with the wipes.

As for shaving? Usually legs and underarms don't produce the amount of hair as it did when a person was much younger. Or are you referring to those pesky chin hairs that tend to show up overnight?

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