I need advice on how to get mom into the bathtub. She is not able to help herself at standing or sitting. We live in a retirement apartment.
The shower is shut off for repair. She is in a wheelchair and does not stand on her own. I have to use a gait belt to stand her up. I thought of trying to put her legs over the edge and then getting in tub to stand her. I think that is risky though.
First, tell the landlord to fix the shower immediately. You aren't paying rent for a non-functional shower. Ask for a handheld shower while you're at it.
Next, rent or buy a sliding bath bench. She sits on the bench (on the outside of the tub), then you slide the seat over the tub area, lifting her legs over the tub edge as needed.
This isn't ideal, as it's still not the safest option, but at least Mom isn't trying to climb into the tub.
Here's what they look like --
DMI Tub Transfer Bench and Shower Chair with Non Slip Aluminum Body, Adjustable Seat Height and Cut Out Access, Holds Weight up to 400 Lbs, Bath and Shower Safety, Transfer Bench https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000NGUD94/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_ZN3JA9P4H97CKBYA7K6H
I would think getting mom down into the tub and back out would be a two person assist.
Does your mom have a primary doctor? If so, call the doctor and ask for a home health agency to visit. They can help your mom get a bathing bench and also help her bathe. Since that probably will take a few days to get set up, a bed bath might be the safest option.
Do a search on this site for tips on bathing an elder. it is a common issue with elders.
Please don't try to get her in the bathtub as that is an accident waiting to happen. It sounds like at this point she really needs a walk in shower, or even one that her wheel chair can be rolled into. If that's not possible where she lives, you may just have to use the extra large body wipes and waterless shampoo and conditioner caps to clean her with. You can order those on Amazon or Walmart.com
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Next, rent or buy a sliding bath bench. She sits on the bench (on the outside of the tub), then you slide the seat over the tub area, lifting her legs over the tub edge as needed.
This isn't ideal, as it's still not the safest option, but at least Mom isn't trying to climb into the tub.
Here's what they look like --
DMI Tub Transfer Bench and Shower Chair with Non Slip Aluminum Body, Adjustable Seat Height and Cut Out Access, Holds Weight up to 400 Lbs, Bath and Shower Safety, Transfer Bench https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000NGUD94/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_ZN3JA9P4H97CKBYA7K6H
I would think getting mom down into the tub and back out would be a two person assist.
Does your mom have a primary doctor? If so, call the doctor and ask for a home health agency to visit. They can help your mom get a bathing bench and also help her bathe.
Since that probably will take a few days to get set up, a bed bath might be the safest option.
Do a search on this site for tips on bathing an elder. it is a common issue with elders.
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If that's not possible where she lives, you may just have to use the extra large body wipes and waterless shampoo and conditioner caps to clean her with. You can order those on Amazon or Walmart.com