Why Do People With Dementia Resist Bathing

Caring for someone with dementia presents unique challenges, particularly when it comes to bathing. It’s common for individuals with dementia to resist bathing and perceive their caregivers as children. Understanding the reasons behind these behaviors is crucial for providing effective care and support.

Loss of Control

Dementia progressively impairs cognitive function, including the ability to make decisions and perform daily tasks independently. Bathing, which involves undressing and being exposed in a vulnerable state, can be perceived as a loss of control. Individuals with dementia may resist bathing as a way to assert their independence and retain a sense of dignity. This sense of vulnerability can trigger combative behavior as they strive to maintain independence. 

Sensory Overload

Sensory processing difficulties are prevalent among people with dementia. The sensory stimuli associated with bathing, such as the sound of running water, the feel of water on the skin, and the sensation of being touched can be overwhelming and distressing for some individuals. This is especially true when there is a loss of vision.  This sensory overload may trigger anxiety and agitation, leading to combative behavior.

Fear and Confusion

Dementia often causes confusion and disorientation, especially in unfamiliar environments or situations. The bathroom, with its reflective surfaces, slippery floors, and unfamiliar fixtures, can be particularly disorienting for individuals with dementia. Fear of falling or getting injured during the bathing process may contribute to resistance and combative behavior.

Past Trauma

Negative experiences related to bathing, such as slips, falls, or discomfort, can leave a lasting impact on individuals with dementia. These past traumatic experiences may lead to an aversion towards bathing and trigger combative behavior as a defensive response to perceived threats.

Perception of Family Caregivers

As dementia progresses, individuals may perceive their caregivers differently, sometimes seeing them as children. They do not perceive the person trying to get them to bathe as being their 45 year old daughter, rather they see them as being a 6 year old child.  This perception can complicate the caregiving dynamic and lead to further resistance.

Communication Challenges

Effective communication becomes increasingly challenging as dementia advances. Individuals may have difficulty expressing their needs, preferences, or discomfort verbally. Combative behavior during bathing sessions may be a form of communication, signaling discomfort, fear, or a desire to avoid the activity altogether.

Strategies To Help A Person With Dementia Who Resists Bathing

To make it easier to address these issues, caregivers can implement several strategies. Establishing a consistent bathing routine can help individuals with dementia feel more secure and comfortable with the process. Creating a calm and familiar environment in the bathroom, with soothing lighting and familiar objects, can also reduce anxiety and resistance. Using verbal reassurance and gentle touch throughout the bathing process can help individuals feel supported and understood. Providing choices and involving them in the decision-making process, such as allowing them to choose the time of day for bathing or the type of soap to use, can help promote a sense of control and reduce resistance. Moreover, exploring alternative bathing methods, such as sponge baths or using no-rinse cleansing products, can offer more flexibility and minimize stress for both the individual with dementia and the caregiver.

Consider Hiring an Agency To Help Provide Care

Remember that providing care to a loved one with dementia can be stressful, and it is important to take care of yourself as well.  Some families have found it useful to use an outside person or agency such as Assisting Hands to assist with bathing their loved one.  If you have a loved one who you are providing significant care for in the Fort Myers area, consider calling Assisting Hands at 239-337-4263 to assist.